This story was updated on Oct. 7, 2022.

The upcoming Temple Wellness Day can serve as a time to break from routine. While our days can start to feel pretty repetitive this time of year, a change of pace can bring a welcome sense of relief and reenergize us for what’s ahead.

But, what should we do with a day off? Sometimes it can be hard to know what to do with ourselves when there are no set expectations.

We crowdsourced some ideas from health and wellness professionals to see what may serve our individual and collective well-being. It seems like the best things to do with some downtime are those that are important or meaningful to us—which could actually require a bit of reflection—and to do them wholeheartedly.

Here are five suggestions for making the most of your Wellness Day.

1. Rest and recharge.  Remind yourself that you are worthy of rest and resting is necessary for achieving our goals. Give yourself permission to sleep late or channel the benefits of a good nap. Journey outdoors for a brisk walk or run. Or maybe some yoga or meditation is what you need to feel rejuvenated. Eating a healthy meal, and taking your time to enjoy it, could also be just what the doctor ordered. Even if it’s from a can, a cup of warm soup can go a long way as the weather gets cooler.
    
2. Cultivate kindness and compassion. Research shows that one of the best ways to increase our happiness and sense of well-being is to do things that make others happy. Being kind to others inspires them to be kind, in turn, and that generosity spreads throughout our networks. So, doing a good deed is a great way to improve your outlook and build community at the same time. 
    
3. Take a minute to plan ahead for the rest of the semester. Maybe that pile of books and papers that have accumulated on your desk could use some organizing. Or filling in assignment deadlines on your calendar could help you manage your time better (and highlight some opportunities to fit more naps into your schedule!). Now could be the perfect moment to tackle these simple tasks you haven’t had time for or have been avoiding. Pro tip: If there’s a mountain of laundry in the corner calling your name, you might want to answer it. Just sayin’.
    
4. Be intentional with your time. Connect with someone you miss or who offers you a sense of calm. Or reconnect with something that gives you joy. Watch a movie you’ve been wanting to see or catch up on your favorite reality TV show. Read for pleasure, remember that? Turn on the shower and sing. Sometimes we can get so caught up in our daily routines that we lose track of what we truly enjoy. Whatever you decide to do, savor the experience.
    
5. Seek support if you need it. Sometimes things can feel a little overwhelming. Temple’s Tuttleman Counseling Services (TCS) offers therapy services, including skills-based and process group therapy sessions, as well as individual counseling and more.