Category: Emotional Well-being & Self-Care

The exams are over. No lectures, no deadlines. In theory, it’s the perfect time to relax. And yet, you feel tired, unmotivated, maybe even a little stuck? If that sounds familiar, you’re probably going through what many students experience each year: the Summer Slump.

What is the “Summer Slump”?

It’s that low-energy phase during the semester break when time feels endless, but nothing really gets done.
You might notice thoughts like:

• “I should be making more out of this free time.”
• “Why can’t I just relax properly?”
• “Everyone else seems to be doing exciting things. What’s wrong with me?”

The truth is: nothing’s wrong. It’s a common reaction to a long, intense semester.

Why it happens

• No routine: Without structure, days can feel blurry or aimless.
• Post-semester fatigue: After weeks of pressure, the brain needs time to reset.
• High expectations: Summer often comes with pressure to be productive, social, or self-optimizing.
• Social media overload: Constant posts about vacations and adventures can make you feel like you’re missing out.

What might help 

You don’t need a big plan to “fix” anything. But small steps can make the slump feel less heavy:

• Create some structure
  Try regular sleep times, meals, or a short daily walk. A bit of rhythm helps.
• One small task a day
  Don’t overdo it. Start simple: laundry, grocery shopping, sending one email.
• Move your body
  A walk through Weidenau, biking to the Sieg, or just stretching at home can already shift your energy.
• Reach out
  Chances are, you’re not the only one still in Siegen feeling this way. Ask around or post in a local group.
• Lower the pressure
  You don’t need to have the “perfect summer.” Some slower days are completely okay.

Still feeling stuck?

If the slump lasts longer or turns into persistent sadness, it’s okay to ask for support.
The Psychological Counseling Service at Uni Siegen offers free and confidential help, even during semester breaks.

Reminder

Not every break has to be packed with productivity or excitement.
Rest, boredom, and slow days are just as much part of the process.
So if you’re feeling a bit off this summer , you’re not the only one.

 

Your SLR host Emma☺️

 

Source: https://cloverleaf.me/blog/what-to-do-about-summer-slump-at-workplace/

 

Had a long day? Try these simple rituals to calm your mind, reset your energy and end your evening with intention, not just exhaustion.

1. Create a soft landing after your day
Before jumping into screens or chores, take a few quiet minutes to transition. Light a candle, change into comfy clothes or open a window. Let your body know the day is over.

2. Do a brain dump
Write down everything on your mind:  thoughts, to-dos, worries. It clears your head and helps you let go.

3. Move gently
Stretch slowly or take a short walk. Even five minutes of light movement can help your body release tension and breathe more freely.

4. Set a calming mood
Turn off harsh lights, light a candle, play soft music or ambient sounds. Small things like this help your body shift into rest mode.

5. Unplug with intention
Instead of scrolling until you fall asleep, decide how you want to end your evening. Read a few pages, sit in silence or just lie down and breathe. Let things slow down naturally.

You don’t need to do everything. Just gentle reminders that it’s okay to rest. That’s more than enough.

Your SLR host Emma 😊

Source: https://geopelie.com/en/blogs/blog/16-rituals-to-enjoy-your-evening-routinesrsltid=AfmBOopNDWC9nBm1bCskIbafqIztRinuGQ38tA2pQ0vQzztxK2BzmxJl

5 Ways journaling can help you as a student:

1. Reduce stress and anxiety
   Writing down your thoughts helps to clear your mind and reduce mental clutter. It’s like talking to someone, but that someone is you.
2. Improve focus and productivity
   A short morning journaling session can help you set intentions for the day, track your goals, and stay organized.
3. Boost your emotional wellbeing
   Journaling helps you identify patterns in your mood and behavior, which can lead to greater emotional awareness and resilience.
4. Encourage self-reflection
   University is a time of big growth. Reflecting on what you’re learning (both in and out of class) can deepen your understanding of yourself.
5. Stimulate creativity
   Free-writing, doodling, or writing short stories in your journal can unlock creative thinking — useful whether you’re writing an essay or planning a project.

Simple journal prompts to get started:

• “What’s been on my mind lately?”
• “What am I grateful for today?”
• “What’s something I’m avoiding and why?”
• “How did I take care of myself this week?”
• “What would I tell my past self right now?”

No rules, just you

You can journal digitally or on paper. Some people write daily, others once a week. Some use bullet points, others paragraphs or even drawings. It’s your space, and there’s no wrong way to use it.

Why not give it a try?

Your SLR host Emma 😊

Source: https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-of-journaling/