Midterms can be a stressful time. You start the semester feeling great, and everything feels manageable. Then, work starts building up, and it feels like you're drowning. You don’t know how you’re supposed to study everything while managing your own life and responsibilities. You don’t have to burn yourself out trying to manage midterms. Here are some tips and advice to help you take care of yourself while studying effectively.

Create a Schedule:

Make a schedule that works best for you. You can do this using a physical planner, an online planner, or any other method that may work for you. In your schedule, it is helpful to:   

• Check your syllabus! See what content will be on your midterm. You don’t want to waste your time, and you don’t want to miss important content.
• Write down everything you need to do. This includes any days you are working, any appointments you have, any studying you need to do, etc. This will help you build your schedule and will also help you organize your thoughts.   
• Prioritize midterms you feel the least confident about, and carve out the most time for them. 
• Build breaks into your schedule. Staring at your notes for hours does not help with active recall and memorization; it will only give you a headache. 
• Mix up the courses and topics you are studying. This will help you avoid burnout and also ensure you are covering all content.

Study Effectively

Passively reading textbooks and slides will not help you retain information. Everybody studies differently; it is important that you know what works for you. 

• Use active recall techniques. These include practice questions and tests, teaching out loud, and creating flashcards for important terms 
• Put down your phone. Phones are major distractions for studying. Put your phone in a chosen focus mode, leave your phone in another room (if possible), or simply silence unimportant notifications. 
• Study in short sessions. Set a timeline for yourself and stick to it. You don’t want to sit for hours cramming information. This won’t help you retain anything.

Knowing Signs of Burnout

Burnout occurs when stress and pressure build up. You don’t allow yourself to rest, and your body and mind reach a state beyond being tired. Know the signs of burnout:

• Constant exhaustion 
• Issues with memory and focus
• Feeling irritable, sad, unmotivated, overwhelmed, etc.   
• Getting sick often 
• Being emotionally drained  

Use Resources Available

Knowing the resources available to you is important. On campus resources include: 

• Student Success Center: offers academic advising, workshops, and services to maximize your success
• Student Health and Wellness: provides a selection of mental health resources, including counselling, self-care events, and wellness initiatives
• In-Person and Online Library: provides access to an array of sources, including textbooks, articles, and journals (don’t forget you can book study spaces!) 

You are not alone. Midterms do not have to burn you out. Remember that you are capable and can get through this!  

- Jordan Calleja, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Managing the pressure of deadlines at university can be stressful, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to stay on top of your work while maintaining your wellbeing. Everyone’s approach is unique, but incorporating planning, self-care, and support systems can make a big difference.

Plan Your Time

Managing your time is key to handling your workload. Writing down tasks and ordering them by urgency helps you focus on the most pressing assignments first. Creating a timetable allows you to visualize your schedule, track deadlines, and block out time for breaks. A balanced routine supports both your mental health and productivity.

Establish Realistic Goals

Set achievable academic goals and break large tasks into smaller steps. For example, focus on completing the introduction of an essay before tackling the whole paper. Smaller milestones make assignments feel manageable and help maintain motivation.

Minimize Distractions

Distractions like smartphones, TV, and unnecessary notifications can hinder productivity and increase stress. Strategies include:

• Turning off electronics or leaving them in a separate room
• Using apps to block distracting websites
• Setting specific times for checking emails or social media
• Communicating your study times to friends and family to minimize interruptions

Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition

Good-quality sleep supports learning, memory, and problem-solving. Establish a regular sleep schedule to handle academic challenges more effectively. Eating balanced meals supports energy levels, mood, and cognitive performance.

Take Regular Breaks

Breaks are essential to manage stress and maintain motivation. After completing a task or milestone, reward yourself with activities you enjoy, whether it’s spending time with friends, watching a film, or going for a walk. Stepping back allows you to return to your studies refreshed and focused.

Use Your Support Network

You don’t have to manage everything alone. Friends, family, tutors, and academic advisors can offer guidance, encouragement, and perspective. At Lakehead University, you can:

• Visit the Academic Support Zone on the second floor of the library for tutoring, study strategies, and academic guidance
• If you are registered with SAS Student Accessibility Services, you may be eligible for accommodations such as extra time on deadlines and tests to support your learning
• Join clubs or study groups to connect with peers, share strategies, and get support from fellow students managing similar workloads

Track Your Stress

Monitoring your stress helps you manage it effectively. Rate your stress daily and note factors such as sleep, meals, caffeine, and deadlines. Patterns will emerge, allowing you to plan proactively and avoid burnout.

Adapt to Tough Weeks

Remember, the stress of university is temporary. Deadlines are just one part of your story. Block out downtime, protect your mental health, and maintain perspective. Regular reflection and adjustment help you build resilience and prevent burnout.

Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Balancing university life with a part-time job can feel like a constant juggling act. Between lectures, assignments, exams, work shifts, and personal responsibilities, it is easy to feel stretched thin. For many students, working while studying is not optional; it is necessary to cover tuition, rent, groceries, or everyday expenses.
While managing school, work, and life can be challenging, it is possible to find balance without sacrificing your academic success or well-being. The key is learning how to manage your time, energy, and expectations in a realistic and compassionate way.

Why Balance Matters

Finding balance is not just about staying organized. It directly impacts your health and success.

When students are overcommitted, burnout can build quickly. Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and constant pressure can affect focus, memory, and motivation. On the other hand, maintaining balance can:

• Improve academic performance
  
  
• Protect your mental and physical health
  
  
• Strengthen relationships with friends and family
  
  
• Support personal growth and long-term goals
  
  

Finding the Right Job

Not all jobs fit well with student life. On-campus jobs often offer more flexibility and understand academic demands, making them a great option for many students. These roles may also allow quieter moments to study during shifts.

Off-campus jobs can work too, especially when employers are clear about expectations and supportive of your schedule. Being upfront about your availability and academic priorities early on can prevent stress later in the semester.

Time Management Is Key

Effective time management is one of the most important skills for balancing work and school. Using a planner, calendar, or scheduling app can help you visualize your commitments and avoid overloading your schedule.

Blocking off time for classes, work, studying, and rest, and treating study time as non-negotiable, can make busy weeks feel more manageable. It is also important to be realistic about how many work hours you can handle without impacting your academic performance.

Protecting Your Well-Being

When life gets busy, self-care is often the first thing students neglect, but it is also the most important. Lack of sleep, skipped meals, and ongoing stress can quickly take a toll.

Small habits can make a big difference:

• Taking short breaks between classes
  
  
• Going for a walk or getting fresh air
  
  
• Eating regular meals
  
  
• Getting enough sleep
  
  
• Making time for activities that help you relax
  
  

Using campus supports can also help reduce stress. At Lakehead University, speaking with a financial adviser can help students create a realistic budget and manage expenses while balancing work and school. If stress, anxiety, or burnout become overwhelming, connecting with a therapist or mental health adviser can provide valuable support. Students can also use the WellU Key to complete a self-assessment and receive personalized recommendations for mental health services and supports available both on and off campus.

Knowing When to Ask for Help

Balancing work and academics does not mean doing everything alone. Professors, advisors, and employers are often more understanding than students expect, especially when communication is proactive.

If work hours begin to interfere with coursework or your well-being, reaching out early can help prevent bigger issues later. Balance looks different for everyone, and adjusting your schedule or commitments over time is part of the learning process, not a failure.

Final Thoughts

Working while studying is a marathon, not a sprint. While it can feel overwhelming at times, thoughtful planning, supportive environments, and attention to your well-being can help you manage both responsibilities successfully.

Remember: balance is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about finding what works best for you and allowing yourself flexibility along the way.

Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Second semester of school hits different. That excitement of New Year's can wear off quickly, and things start to get a little more real. Your assignments start to pile up, days are darker and colder, and suddenly you’re starting to burn out. Those super late nights, skipped workouts and walks, comfort foods, and high screen time start to feel normal, just to run from the burnout. For some students, this combination can lead to unhealthy life choices and gradual weight gain, without even realizing it. And honestly? I’ve been there. 

Why Second Semester Can Feel So Tough

• Cold weather makes you want to stay indoors

• Those shorter days can affect your energy levels and motivation

• Academic stress can cause emotional eating and poor sleep

• Limited schedules can cause you to get the easier/processed option of food over the nutritious one

It is not about discipline, you’re doing the best you can! It can be caused by an environment that makes those healthier choices harder to make. 

Tips To Stay Active During The Winter

You don’t need a perfect routine, just one that can be consistent for you.

• Make your movement indoors-friendly: home workouts, yoga, stretching, or even some YouTube workouts

• Use on-campus spaces: the Wolf-Den, the Hanger, wellness or workout classes, and Modo Yoga

• Break up your sitting time: stretch, stand, or move around approximately every 20 minutes

• Bundle up and go outside anyway: even a short walk between classes counts as movement

Movement doesn’t have to be this big, elaborate workout; it can just happen regularly. 

Staying Healthy Without Resisting Yourself

• Eat regularly: skipping meals often leads to overeating later

• Add, don’t take away: focus on adding fruits, vegetables, protein, and water instead of only removing “bad” foods

• Plan simple, easy meals: soups, stir-fries, and slow-cooker meals can be more affordable and easier

Remember: enjoying comfort foods occasionally is a part of being human, especially during stressful times. 

Kayla McAdam, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Stress and anxiety are something we all experience at different points in our lives. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time, starting a new project, or adjusting to a big change, it’s normal to feel a bit on edge. But when these feelings become constant, they can affect your daily life. Understanding how stress and anxiety work and how to manage them can help you feel more in control.

Understanding Stress vs. Anxiety

Stress usually comes from an external source, like a looming deadline, a tough exam, or a disagreement with a friend. It tends to fade once the situation is resolved.

Anxiety, on the other hand, can feel constant, even in situations that aren’t actually threatening. It often shows up as persistent worry, tension, or a sense of dread that makes daily life more challenging.

Recognize Your Triggers

A great first step in managing stress is identifying what sets it off. Is it social pressure, lack of sleep, or a busy schedule? Once you know your triggers, you can take steps to minimize them or respond more effectively.

Practical Tips for Managing Stress

Develop a Gratitude Practice 

Focusing on what’s going well in your life can help put challenges in perspective. Try writing down three things you’re grateful for each day.

Create Predictability

Feeling out of control often increases stress. Build a routine with small, manageable steps to tackle problems. Focus on what you can control rather than what you can’t.

Build Your Support System

Having someone to talk to during tough times can make a huge difference. Reach out to friends, family, or campus support services when you need help.

Manage Acute Stress

Try techniques like deep breathing, positive self-talk, or mental rehearsal—visualizing yourself handling a challenging situation successfully. These strategies can help your body and mind return to calm.

Embrace Positive Stress and Resilience

Not all stress is bad. “Eustress” is the type of stress that motivates and excites you, like preparing for a performance or working toward a personal goal.

Building resilience, the ability to adapt in the face of challenges, can help you bounce back stronger and more confident.

Mindfulness and Flow

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or immersive activities you enjoy, can reduce stress and anxiety.

Flow is a state where you’re completely absorbed in what you’re doing, losing track of time and self-consciousness. Achieving flow can improve focus, motivation, and overall well-being.

Seek Support When Needed

If stress or anxiety starts interfering with your daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Familiarizing yourself with available resources can make a big difference.

Bottom Line

Stress and anxiety are part of life, but they don’t have to control you. By identifying triggers, practicing mindfulness, and building strong support systems, you can manage stress effectively and build resilience for the future.

Small steps every day can make a big difference.

Need Support on Campus?

If you want to seek professional support, visit Lakehead University Student Health & Wellness for more information on the supports available on campus and to book an appointment.

 Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

The start of a new goal often comes with a burst of motivation. You feel inspired, ready to change habits, improve your life, and become a better version of yourself. However, alongside that, motivation can also come from pressure—pressure to get everything right, to move quickly, and to never make mistakes. This is where kindness toward yourself becomes not just helpful, but essential.

When setting new goals, many people fall into the trap of harsh self-judgment. Miss one workout, procrastinate on one assignment, or fall back into an old habit, and suddenly the inner critic takes over. This all-or-nothing thinking can quickly drain motivation and make goals feel overwhelming. Being kind to yourself doesn’t mean lowering your standards; it means creating conditions where growth is actually sustainable.

Self-kindness starts with realistic expectations. Big changes rarely happen overnight. Progress is usually slow, uneven, and full of learning moments. Instead of expecting perfection, aim for consistency and effort. A small step forward—reading one page, saving a few dollars, or taking a short walk—still counts. When you acknowledge these small wins, you reinforce positive behavior rather than discouraging yourself for what you haven’t done yet.

Another important part of being kind to yourself is recognizing that setbacks are normal. Everyone experiences them. They are not proof that you lack discipline or motivation; they are part of the process. When setbacks happen, try responding with curiosity instead of criticism. Ask yourself what got in the way and what you might do differently next time. This approach turns mistakes into opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit.

Language also matters. The way you speak to yourself can either support your goals or sabotage them. If you wouldn’t say something to a close friend, it’s worth questioning why you say it to yourself. Replacing “I always fail” with “I’m learning how to do this better” can shift your mindset from defeat to resilience. Compassionate self-talk builds confidence and keeps you engaged, even when things feel hard.

Being kind to yourself also means allowing rest and flexibility. Pushing nonstop can lead to burnout, which makes goals harder to maintain. Rest is not a reward you earn after being productive; it is a necessary part of staying healthy and motivated. Giving yourself permission to pause, reset, or adjust your goals does not mean you’ve failed—it means you’re listening to your needs.

Ultimately, goals are meant to improve your life, not punish you. When you approach them with patience, understanding, and self-compassion, you create a healthier relationship with both your ambitions and yourself. Kindness doesn’t slow progress—it strengthens it. By treating yourself with the same care you’d offer someone you love, you give your goals the best chance to truly last.

 - Sarah Andrew, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Every January, motivation is high. The wolf den is packed, planners are colour-coded, and everyone’s convinced this is the year things finally change. And then… midterms happen. Winter drags on. Life gets busy.

If your New Year’s resolutions have fizzled before, you didn’t fail but maybe your approach did. Lasting change has a lot less to do with willpower and a lot more to do with small habits that fit with your life.

Why Resolutions Usually Don’t Work

Most resolutions focus on big outcomes:

• Get fitter

• Eat better

• Be less stressed

The problem? Our brains don’t change behaviour based on vague intentions. They change through repeated actions, shaped by habits and environment. Add in the pressure to change everything at once and burnout isn’t a surprise. Motivation spikes (like January 1) are real, but they’re short-lived. The good news: there’s a better way.

Try This Instead: Habit-Based Change

A helpful reframe is shifting from what you want to who you’re becoming.

Instead of: “I need to work out more.”

Try: “I’m someone who moves my body regularly.”

That identity shift matters — and it’s built through small, doable habits.

4 Habit Shifts That Actually Stick

1. Make It Smaller Than You Think

If it feels impressive, it’s probably too big.

• ❌Work out 5 days a week

• ✅ Move for 5 minutes

Small habits lower the barrier to starting. Consistency builds momentum — not intensity.

2. Change Your Space, Not Your Personality

Willpower is unreliable. Your environment does way more work than motivation ever will.

A few simple tweaks:

• Keep a water bottle on your desk

• Lay out workout clothes ahead of time

• Charge your phone away from your bed if sleep is a goal

You’re not trying to be more disciplined; you’re making the healthier option easier.

3. Pick One or Two Things (Not Everything)

Trying to overhaul your entire life at once is a fast track to overwhelm.

Research consistently shows people are more successful when they:

• Focus on fewer habits

• Practice them consistently

• Add more only once the first ones feel automatic

Less really is more.

4. Stop Chasing the “Fresh Start” Feeling

January motivation fades, and that’s normal. Real habits are built on random Tuesdays in February and stressful weeks in March. Missing a day isn’t failure. What matters is coming back.

What This Looks Like for Students

Here are some realistic swaps:

• Instead of: “I’ll stop procrastinating”
  Try: “I’ll work on assignments for 10 minutes after class.”

• Instead of: “I’ll manage stress better”
  Try: “I’ll take three slow breaths before opening my laptop.”

• Instead of: “I’ll eat healthier”
  Try: “I’ll add one fruit or veggie to one meal a day.”

Small counts. Small sticks.

Want Built-In Structure? Try a Challenge

If you like a little accountability (and prizes don’t hurt), SHW challenges can be a great way to experiment with habit change .

• Thawed Out Fitness Challenge (starts January 12)
  • A low-pressure way to get moving this winter. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s showing up consistently, by logging 21 workouts in 28 days (doing whatever kind of movement that feels good for you)
• No Nic Challenge (January 19-23)
  
  • Thinking about cutting back or taking a break from nicotine? This challenge focuses on short-term change, daily check-ins, and support, not judgment.

Both challenges are designed to help you build habits gradually, with incentives along the way.

The Bottom Line

You don’t need a dramatic resolution to create change.

What actually works:

• Habits tied to who you’re becoming

• Changes that are small enough to repeat

• Environments that support you

• Progress over perfection

Remember that Lakehead has support available to you to support physical, financial, social, mental and academic wellbeing- use the WellU Key to explore!

At the beginning of each new year, the phrase “New Year, New Me” is constantly being thrown around on social media. While the new year can be a great time to make changes in your day to day life, it can also be a great time to simply reflect on the year past and re-assess areas of your life rather than attempting to become a completely different person in the span of a month. 

This is not to say you can’t make new year's resolutions, but more so to encourage making goals that are realistic and achievable rather than goals that require you to spend excessive amounts of money, overhaul a diet, or re-arrange your entire schedule.

Here are 4 tips for how to make sure your new goals/resolutions are achievable and not just a “show” for social media.

1. Reflect on What You Have Accomplished This Year. 

While January is a great time to make new goals, it is also a great opportunity to sit yourself down and reflect on all that you have accomplished this year—big or small. Even if all you accomplished this past year was surviving, that in itself is a huge accomplishment and something you should be proud of. 

2. Focus on the “Why” of your goals 

Yeah, making goals is a huge part of changing habits and routines, but without the “Why” factor, they are simply words on a paper. Make concrete goals that are both achievable and realistic within your daily life. 

3. The “Rule of One” 

While it can be exciting to jump right into becoming a better person and trying to accomplish your goals, focusing on one goal at a time can be a much better use of your time, rather than overwhelming yourself with throwing too many things on your plate. 

4. Choosing “Selective Accountability”

Selective Accountability is simply that— choosing yourself as the sole person to keep you accountable for completing your own goals. While it can be exciting to want to share all of your goals with your best friend, that can also be a slippery slope that leads to you overcompensating in fear of failure. When making new goals, especially in the beginning, it's okay to keep them to yourself and work in silence. You goals are for yourself, after all!

- Makayla Foster, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

The winter months can be difficult for many reasons. Dealing with going back to school after a break is challenging enough, but waking up for an 8 a.m. class to freezing weather makes getting out of bed feel impossible. Here are some tips for staying warm whether you live on-campus or commute. 

Layer, Layer, Layer 

In this cold weather, layering is your best friend. Layering can help trap heat, keep you from sweating, and give you more flexibility. 

• A sweat-wicking base layer keeps you from sweating 
• A mid-layer like a sweater, crewneck, or fleece helps lock in heat 
• A warm winter jacket keeps you protected from the freezing weather and wind 

Don’t forget gloves, scarves, and hats! These prevent heat from leaving your body. 

Drink Water 

Staying hydrated is always important, even in the winter! Drinking water keeps your immune system strong and your body functioning properly. Always keeping your water bottle on you and filling up frequently is essential. 

Check the Weather 

You want to make sure you are prepared from the weather. This is especially important if you’re commuting. Check weather alerts and work any delays into your commute. You may need to work some extra time into your commute. Your safety comes first. If you ever feel unsafe traveling to school due to bad weather, make a judgement call and reach out to your instructor if necessary. 

It's also a good idea to download Lakehead's mobile safety app. You will be notified through the app of any campus closures due to inclement weather.

Keep a Winter Kit Handy 

Whether you are commuting or are on-campus, keeping a winter kit with you can make long, cold days feel more manageable, consider packing: 

• Hand and toe warmers
• An extra pair of gloves and socks 
• Lip balm and moisturizer 
• An umbrella for days of snow and rain 

For drivers, consider adding on: 

• An ice/snow scraper 
• A blanket 
• Jumper cables 

Winter semester can feel exhausting. Dealing with school, personal responsibilities, and the freezing weather is overwhelming. Making sure you are well prepared for the weather can help alleviate some of the daily stress. Remember, if you need any extra support you can reach out to Student Health and Wellness.  

- Jordan Calleja, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Don’t Hibernate, Here’s What to Do in Thunder Bay This Winter

Winter in Thunder Bay doesn’t mean boring! If you’re staying on campus over the break, there’s plenty to see, do, and explore — whether you want some fresh air, a rush of adrenaline, or a cozy indoor escape from the cold. Here are my favourite ideas to stay active, clear your head, and soak up wintertime in the city.

Hit the Trails

• Kamview Nordic Centre– Just outside the city, with over 30 km of groomed ski trails (and 5.5 km lit for night skiing!) plus many marked snowshoe trails. Great for classic or skate skiing, or for a chill snowshoe stroll. Bonus: there’s a chalet where you can warm up with a hot drink or soup. https://www.tbnordictrails.com/

• Local Conservation Areas – If you want something quieter and low-key, try places like Mills Block Forest or Hazel wood Lake trails. Good for a snowy walk, maybe bring snowshoes or crampons if snow’s deep. https://northernontario.travel/thunder-bay/4-places-snowshoe-thunder-bay-winter

• Sleeping Giant Provincial Park – For a bigger winter adventure: trails through pine forest, beautiful lake-views, and if conditions are good, classic Nordic-style ski or snowshoe experience. https://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/index.aspxhttps://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/see-and-do/natural-wonders-and-scenic-views.aspx

Whether you’re after serene forest vibes or full-on ski vibes, there’s a trail waiting. Just bundle up, and check trail/equipment updates if you’re renting gear.

For the Adrenaline Seekers

• Downhill skiing & snowboarding — If you like speed and slopes, check out Loch Lomond Ski Area or Mount Baldy Ski Area. Both have runs for different skill levels, and offer rentals and lessons if you’re new to it. https://www.lochlomond.ca/

• Snow tubing at Mount Baldy — Want a simpler, fun ride without needing ski skills? Tubing is perfect: grab a tube, hop on the magic carpet lift, and zoom down. Easy, fun, and great with friends. https://www.skimountbaldy.ca/

Perfect if you want a big dose of winter fun, or try something new with your buddies.

Chill but Active

• Skating / Outdoor rinks— You’ll find lots of outdoor rinks around Thunder Bay (some say the city has one of the highest rinks-per-capita!). The waterfront rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing is a favourite — perfect for a relaxing skate and a cozy hot-chocolate afterwards. https://www.thunderbay.ca/en/recreation/outdoor-skating.aspx

• Ice fishing — If you’re into trying something chill yet satisfying, ice fishing (on lakes that have frozen over) can be a peaceful way to spend a winter afternoon. For those new to it, there are outfitters nearby to rent huts and gear. https://www.visitthunderbay.com/en/outdoor-adventure/ice-fishing.aspx

• Sleigh rides & winter farm fun — Want something cozy and scenic? Sleigh rides through snowy countryside around Thunder Bay can be a magical experience — especially nice with friends. https://www.gammondalefarm.com/

Mix It Up

• Local markets and events — If you want to stay warm but still soak in community vibes, check out spots like Goods & Co. Market. It’s a hub for local artisans, artists, seasonal events, and a nice break from the cold. https://goodscomarket.ca/

• Historic & cultural outings — Learn something new or explore winter events at places like Fort William Historical Park. These spots can be a fun mix of history, community and winter atmosphere. https://fwhp.ca/

• Stay social and explore downtown — Even a winter stroll downtown can lift your mood. Grab coffee, pop into cozy shops, or meet up with friends. It’s a great way to stay connected, explore locally, and break up the study grind.

A Few Tips to Stay Warm, Safe, and Happy

• Dress in layers: warm base layer, waterproof outerwear, gloves, hat, a good pair of boots or snow boots. Winter weather can change fast!

• Check trail and equipment status before heading out, especially if you rent skis or plan to hike/snowshoe. Some ski hills and trails depend on snow conditions.

• Go with friends or campus buddies: winter adventures are more fun (and safer) with company.

• Mix active and chill: winter isn’t just about skiing or skating. Balance high-energy days outdoors with relaxed cultural or indoor time.

• Embrace the season: fresh air, snow, and the quiet beauty of winter can really do wonders for stress and well-being.

Staying on campus for winter break doesn’t have to feel like being stuck indoors. Thunder Bay offers a little bit of everything — from peaceful snowshoe paths to adrenaline-pumping ski hills, cozy indoor markets, and hidden winter gems waiting to be discovered. So bundle up, make a plan (or a spontaneous winter outing), and get out there — you might be pleasantly surprised how much a snowy walk or a skate can boost your mood.

Stay warm, stay active, and enjoy your winter break!

-Tahsin Anika, Health Promotions Activities Lead