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Wednesday, February 19, 2025

The winter blues: A guide to health and wellness during the daunting winter quarter

UC Davis students offer advice and strategies for maintaining their mental and physical health during the winter season

 

By JENEVAH HARRISON — features@theaggie.org

 

The winter blues are starting to return; During these trying times, many UC Davis students struggle to maintain their mental and physical health.

But try not to despair too much and take these tips from some of your fellow students on how to beat these incessant blues.

“Winter quarter is definitely the toughest quarter for me,” Julie Marquez, a second-year English major, said. “The weather tends to affect my mood, and since I’ve never liked the cold, I would rather stay inside than go out with friends or study elsewhere. Consequently, I end up getting a little sad and unproductive.”

Marquez’s experience echoes that of many students who find themselves wrestling with low energy and mood swings as the days grow shorter and colder. Subsequently, the temptation of remaining in the comforts of one’s home arises, often leading to patterns of isolation and depression. Marquez said it’s important to resist that temptation to decrease isolation.

“I’ve found that it’s beneficial when I push myself to interact with people and study around campus instead of rushing back home as soon as classes are over,” Marquez said.

Marquez also said staying off the phone helps to stimulate the mind.

“Also, [I try to] spend as much time off of social media as I can,” Marquez said. “I spent the majority of my winter break reading, and I’d like for that to follow into the quarter. It always feels like a better alternative to mindlessly scrolling on any app.”

Besides engaging the brain, Huy Tran, a third-year international relations major, said physical activity is another way to beat the winter slump.

“One way I manage my stress levels is going to the gym,” Tran said. “The gym is one of my favorite places to go because I don’t have to think. There [are] no thoughts in my head at the gym, and I feel very relaxed.”

Tran also highlighted the importance of picking up new hobbies to combat the long and draining season.

“I feel like especially with the weather, it gets very depressing — but that’s why it’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, like learning a new hobby,” Tran said.

Anna Petruzzi, a second year biological psychology major, said the lighting changes in winter tends to make her feel less motivated.

“The sun setting early is just so depressing,” Petruzzi said. “It makes me want to sleep instead of doing my work.”

To combat these feelings, Petruzzi said she likes to make her room cozy to create a safe place to return to after classes. She also said she gives herself plenty of breaks in between study sessions to ensure her energy and motivation remain intact.

The UC Davis Student Health and Counseling Services also offers tips to manage stress levels. In their article “Feeling Stressed?” they suggested implementing a regular exercise routine.

“Exercise can help bring your body back to normal levels and releases feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins,” the article reads.

They also emphasized the importance of proper nutrition and eating habits.

“Eating three or more small to medium meals on a regular schedule that include fruit and vegetables can help maintain a balanced energy level,” the article reads.

Students can also find support through campus resources and organizations. Clubs and organizations on campus may provide opportunities for indoor and outdoor activities. For more information on specific groups, the UC Davis website provides club and organization lists, as well as further resources for students.

For those who prefer indoor activities, campus locations including the Activities and Recreation Center (ARC) provide many activities for students including yoga, badminton, volleyball, an indoor track for running and even a rock climbing wall.

Whether it’s joining a creative writing club, engaging in group study sessions or taking part in cultural organizations, there are plenty of ways to stay connected, active and motivated this winter quarter.

 

Written by: Jenevah Harrison — features@theaggie.org

 

 

 

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