The winter break is fast approaching and students are feeling it. With tight deadlines, hours spent in the library, and hours researching and reading, students are working hard for the results they need. The sad reality is that during these busy times, the students themselves are an afterthought. Being too busy juggling academia and social life can take its toll. The hardworking students deserve a well-earned rest.
What better way is there to rest up from the first semester than going home? For some individuals, this time may be the first they are living away from home. Suddenly pushed into the deep end of adulthood, students often miss the comfort of home— and home cooking. With Christmas and Hogmanay celebrations filling up students’ diaries, a lot of the gatherings will involve festive feasts and treats. Naturally, this may lead to some weight gain which is perfectly okay. Students’ experiences during these times are varied and unique.
Once students come back home, they can relax and let the stresses of university behind. The parents of the students will likely make dishes they miss. These dishes are an act of love and care. Another dish known for being loving and caring is a Christmas dinner. Christmas dinners are big and people end up with leftovers for days. So do not feel bad about indulging. The food is there to be eaten.
How to avoid the guilt
You may be questioning if it’s okay to be eating so much over the holidays. The simple answer is: yes. Food is there to fill and nurture our bodies— it is not our enemy. However, if you would like some more reasons, there are plenty. Social and lifestyle factors do play a part, particularly for students, who balance various aspects of life throughout their educational journey.
Celebrations, reduced stress, and improved mental health due to the stressful time of exams season being behind us plays a factor in our weight gain during the winter period. Friends and family are back from university around the same time and often stay until half way through January. Meeting up for catch up coffees and brunches with our loved ones during this time in winter when everyone is home is normal and may have its effects. Although, it is so worth it.
The change in our routines, the amount of food that we can have, and lower levels of movement are the reality of coming home for the winter break. Students don’t have to wake for a 9am class. They can have as big of a breakfast, lunch or dinner as they want. They can just rest. Rest their body and mind for the semester ahead of them. Also with the days getting darker earlier and earlier, it is just the right time to catch up on shows or books and enjoy the time and relax.
At the end of the day weight gain is normal and natural during this time. Food is fuel. The most important take away from this break is that the students feel refreshed and ready for another semester. And who cares? You still look great and healthy.
I am a 1st year journalism and politics student who is just starting out
