How students can unplug and relax in nature

Between exams, assignments, and extracurriculars, for most students, college can be a very stressful time. That stress can often intensify if work breaks consist of Instagram and TikTok scrolling sessions, given that the overuse of social media and technology may have negative mental consequences.

Students can instead put their devices down and use nature to unwind. Simply eating a meal outdoors instead of indoors may not sound impactful, but many students find it to be relaxing.

Anya Solomon, sophomore marine biology major, eats a meal outside about two to three times a week.

“I like the breeze and watching the animals, such as iguanas and butterflies, go by,” said Solomon. “They make me feel relaxed.”

She recommended the Flight Deck backyard and the Medicinal Garden (located near the Tom Panza Science Annex) as ideal places on campus to have a relaxing picnic.

Chloe Rousseau, IOC chair of the Nature Club and senior communication major, has a special appreciation for the Medicinal Garden.

“You can sit there and listen to the sounds of the bamboo creaking, the leaves rubbing on each other, birds chirping, and it’s really nice,” said Rousseau, who is also this newspaper’s business manager.

Rousseau also suggested taking advantage of the garden plots available to all students, which they can use to grow their own food, and going on the Nature Club’s semesterly camping trip.

“We go to super cool parks like Highlands Hammock and Peanut Island, and these camping trips are free,” she said. “It’s really a way to connect with nature.”

For more information about these trips, students can contact Student Sustainability Coordinator Tatum Hedrick at th1395@mynsu.nova.edu.

Joe Dubner, senior biology and marine biology major and president of the Nature Club, recommends going to the Wildfire Garden, located right next to the Medicinal Garden.

“I think NSU having spaces like the Wildfire Garden, like the Community Garden is incredibly beneficial for students,” said Dubner. “I’ve seen people do religious ceremonies there, like prayers.”

Going off-campus to different nature spots and local beaches can also help clear the mind.

Devynne Brown, marine science graduate student, finds “the waves, birds, [and] sitting in the sun” to be the most calming aspects of a beach visit. She also said collecting seashells and surfing promote relaxation.

Michael Lynn, assistant director of student media and nature enthusiast, recommended Robbins Preserve.

“Robbins Preserve has a very nice scenic view and a good place for kite flying and rocket launching,” Lynn said. “It also has a very nice nature trail that connects to Flamingo Gardens.”

He also recommended Long Key Natural Area and Nature Center, Flamingo Gardens, Holiday Park and West Lake Park as peaceful hangout spots.