As both of us head into our fourth year, there is a lot to reflect on. Of course, we have developed and grown academically, but much of our growth has come simply from experiencing life at this institution. As many of our readers head into their first year here at UofT, we understand that your freshman year will be much different from ours, but recognize that it will also carry many of the same anxieties and learning curves that we experienced. Having most of our classes online will no doubt be challenging for everyone in different ways. For some, it might actually be more accessible. However, you may be feeling about upcoming classes, we want to remind you to create space for yourself to relax and rest. Life is chaotic, and giving yourself time to breathe is important. Your grades will never be more important than your wellbeing.
Rest means something different for everyone. In a society that emphasizes ultimate productivity as the ideal form, consciously resting is something that takes practice. It’s quite easy, especially as we spend more time inside than usual, to engage in activities we deem as leisurely while simultaneously feeling guilty about trying to relax at all. The concept of self-care has quickly been overtaken by corporations as another way to convince us that in order to care for ourselves, we need something that only they have. That doesn’t mean that bath bombs and candles can’t be part of what helps you relax, but you shouldn’t feel like they are the only effective tools for self-care; your method of relaxation doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
So, take the time to rest your eyes after looking at your screens. Listen to music and do things that you enjoy in between and after your classes, or after reading this issue. Talk to friends and drink lots of whatever. Most importantly, do what is best for you.
In Opinions, Janna Abbas discusses finding comfort in technology. In Arts and Culture, Mackenzie Fitzpatrick discusses the ever-growing world of digital art. In Opinions, Falak Navaz explores the role of memes in building community among students and offering relief to the collective student struggle. In Features, Imani King discusses being in touch with her Blackness through slam poetry. We hope their words can help you reflect on your journey at UofT and offer ways to build community. Though we are distant, it is still possible to make friends and connect with student groups online.
Thank you for reading The Strand, and we wish you all the best in the coming month.
Comments are closed.