Addie Zhang ‘26
As the chill of winter fades and flowers start to blossom, spring is the time of year that offers a perfect opportunity to reset not only our calendars but also our minds. During an age where screen time may average six hours a day, finding time to “unplug” may seem nearly impossible. But this spring, why not take the challenge and find some time to disconnect and enjoy our beautiful nature?
1. Try a Nature Walk around St. Mark’s West Campus!
Want to get outside, but too lazy to leave school grounds? Head to West Campus! This area of our campus is often overlooked now that the New Dorm has replaced the dorms in West Campus. But this place truly is a hidden gem. The best parts about it are the budding trees, returning wildlife, and paths filled with crunchy leaves and new grass. Leave your phone behind or put it on airplane mode, and give yourself some time to just wander around and observe. Be fully present and mindful of your surroundings and yourself by clearing your thoughts and focusing on your breathing. You will feel so much more relaxed and at peace!
If you are with a friend, keep the conversation light. Instead of talking about external things, keep it grounded in what is around you. Be fully present!
2. Bored with St. Mark’s Campus? Expand your walk around Southborough!
Submit a “Walk/Run in Southborough” Orah Pass, grab a friend or go solo, and enjoy the beautiful spring foliage that Southborough has to offer. Walk down to Starbucks or the Breakneck Hill Conservation (a little bit past Starbucks) and enjoy the charming panoramic views and nature along the way!
3. Try Planting Something
Even though it is quite hard to maintain an entire garden while living in the dorm, planting a flower in a small pot is possible. Ranging from a few days to weeks, you will see it bloom! Being a part of the process of creating something so lovely could be very satisfying and pleasant!
Spring is a season of renewal. By choosing to unplug and connect with nature, we are able to not only see the world differently but also feel it. But feeling it, we are able to appreciate what is around us and gain a more optimistic outlook on things around us!