I can finally take a calm breath and relax, my semester is over. Last week, I completed my exams and handed over my MFA application. I worked as hard as I could and for now, my grades and graduate school plans are out of my control.
After all the stress and worry from fall semester, I decided to let loose and treat myself to some fun. My roommate and I threw a party, and spent Sunday night laughing and celebrating with friends. Then we decided to try something different to unwind. On Monday we drove down the coast to Santa Cruz to treat ourselves to massage and hot tubs at a clothing-optional “retreat house” spa.
It was such a vulnerable experience for me, to just bare it all, but it was freeing. We spent the evening soaking in tubs, meditating in the sauna, sipping tea, and getting massage. It was exactly what I needed to release the pressure that had built up over the last five months.
While there, my friend and I talked about how much this semester broke us down yet also made us stronger. When I look back, I can see a difference in my ability to cope with stress and self-doubt. I know what I am made of now. I can handle anything if I stay strong through the hard times, and have faith that things will work out.
All the encouragement I received from family and friends this year made all the difference. I am so grateful to feel loved and supported by the people in my life. Their presence in my life is a gift. They have pushed me to pursue my dreams and to never give up on myself.
For the next month, I’m going to enjoy my winter break, and spend this time taking care of myself and having fun. I finally used my gift certificate for 30 days of unlimited classes at a yoga studio near my house. I promised myself I’d try to go every day to take full advantage of the gift. The past week I have kept that promise, and feel energized and ready to take on the new year, whatever it has in store for me.
