Finding Balance at U-M | Easy Ways to Move, Recharge, and Reduce Stress by Paula Galvan Vega

 Finding Balance at U-M | Easy Ways to Move, Recharge, and Reduce Stress

By Paula Galvan Vega

Summer Orientation Peer Advisor

Undergraduate Student

Country of Origin: Mexico

Starting college can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. Between classes, assignments, student organizations, work, and trying to meet new people, it is easy to feel like you always need to be doing something productive. However, taking care of yourself is also an important part of being successful at U-M.

Wellness does not have to mean spending hours at the gym or following a perfect routine. It can be as simple as walking outside, taking a yoga class, stretching between study sessions, or giving yourself time to rest. The most important thing is finding something that makes you feel better physically and mentally.

Find movement that you actually enjoy

Exercise can look different for everyone. Some people enjoy lifting weights or running, while others prefer yoga, Pilates, dancing, cycling, or simply walking. You do not need to choose the most intense workout for it to be worthwhile.

Michigan Recreation offers different ways for students to stay active, including fitness facilities, group exercise and recreational programs. Classes and availability can change by semester, so it is helpful to check the current Michigan Recreation schedule before making plans. U-M also offers options such as yoga, strength training, Zumba and other physical-activity classes through different campus programs.

Group classes can be especially helpful when you are new to campus. They provide structure, give you a reason to take a break from studying, and can make exercise feel more social. You also do not need to already be experienced. Many campus classes are designed for different fitness levels and abilities.

Try different activities until you find one you genuinely enjoy. You may discover that you prefer a calm yoga class over a traditional workout, or that going on walks with a friend is what helps you feel your best.

Take a walk through the Arb

One of my favorite ways to recharge in Ann Arbor is walking through Nichols Arboretum, usually called “the Arb.” It is close to campus but feels like a break from the busy university environment.

The Arb has almost 3.5 miles of walking trails that connect its three entrances. The trails go through wooded areas, gardens, and sections along the Huron River. It is free to visit and is generally open from sunrise to sunset.

You do not need to make the walk into a serious workout. You can go for 20 minutes between classes, listen to music or a podcast, walk with a friend, or simply sit outside. During stressful weeks, leaving the library and spending even a little time in nature can help you reset.

Because some trails include hills, stairs, and uneven ground, choose a route that feels comfortable for you. Maps are available at the entrances, and bikes are not allowed on the Arb’s walking trail.

Use your time between classes

You do not always need a full free afternoon to take care of yourself. Small breaks throughout the day can make a big difference.

Instead of spending every break scrolling on your phone, you could walk around campus, stretch, eat outside, or sit somewhere quiet for a few minutes. Even walking to your next class instead of taking the bus can add some movement to your day when the weather and your schedule allow it.

It can also help to schedule wellness time the same way you schedule a class or meeting. You might decide that Tuesday evening is your yoga time or that you will walk with a friend every Friday after class. Putting it on your calendar makes it easier to protect that time when your week becomes busy.

Remember that rest is also productive

Staying active is important, but wellness is not only about exercise. Sleep, social connection, nutrition and rest can all affect how you feel and respond to stress. U-M’s wellness resources encourage students to experiment with different strategies and find what works for their own needs.

Some days, the best choice may be attending a workout class. On other days, it may be going to bed early, calling someone from home or taking a quiet break. Listening to your body does not mean you are lazy. It means you are recognizing what you need.

It is also normal for your routine to change during the semester. The habits that work during the first few weeks may not be realistic during midterms or finals. Rather than trying to follow an all-or-nothing routine, adjust your plans based on your workload and energy.

Create a routine that works for you

There is no single correct way to find balance at U-M. Your version of wellness might include Pilates twice a week, walking through the Arb, stretching in your room, or taking ten minutes away from your laptop.

Start with something small and realistic. Choose one activity that sounds enjoyable and try adding it to your week. You do not need the perfect schedule; you only need habits that help you feel healthier, calmer, and more like yourself.

College can get very busy, but taking time to move, recharge, and rest can help you enjoy the experience rather than just trying to keep up with it. So I hope you remember that taking care of yourself is not a waste of time. Whether it is a walk through the Arb, a class with a friend, or simply permitting yourself to rest, finding your own way to recharge can make your college experience feel much more manageable and enjoyable.