Have you ever felt like your mental health gets pushed to the back burner in the midst of your crazy busy life? Well, I’ve been there too. College is stressful. You run back and forth to class, events, hanging out with a friend, and must make time to eat somewhere in there too. You’re stressed, busy, over worked, and overcommitted. Your mental health seems to always be lacking, and it keeps getting pushed further and further to the bottom of your priorities list.

I’m telling you right now, you should take a break. You may feel like you have no time. But the truth is, you do. How many times do you pick up your phone to check a message and end up on Instagram for an hour? Take that time to boost your mental health. Here are some places you can go that are within five minutes to about an hour away from SWU’s campus where you can get away, breathe, and take in some nature.

• Potter’s Place – This is a place where you can go walk on trails, go stargazing with friends, sit and listen to the peaceful breeze, or spend some time with Jesus in a prayer cabin of your own. Only a couple minutes from campus, this place is beautiful and peaceful like no where else. Whether you want to walk around or lay out a blanket and read your Bible, Potter’s Place has something for everyone. It’s a facility created for people to go and have quiet time with God, take a break, and recharge.
• Clemson Botanical Gardens ­– Only fifteen minutes from SWU’s campus, this beautiful garden is nestled inside Clemson’s campus. From flowers to vines, to pergolas and gazebos, this garden is so vast and truly amazing! Whether you go there to walk around with friends, take pictures, or use one of the many trails, you are sure to feel recharged after an experience here. You can get out and take a walk through each different section and learn something along the way as well!
• Table Rock State Park – Located about 40 minutes from campus, this State Park is a great place to go for a hike with friends. There are different trails for various levels and based on the amount of time you want to spend hiking. You get a chance to experience nature – trees, flowers, wildlife, and waterfalls. Even if hiking’s not your thing, you can always go on a beginner trail—remember you must start somewhere!
• Sassafrass Mountain – This mountain overlook with 360-degree views is located a little shy of an hour from campus. If you aren’t into hiking, this one is for you! With a platform overlook, you get to take in calming, but breathtaking views. This is great spot for taking a guitar up, reading a book, writing, or just having some quiet time. There are several different overlooks where you can view vast sections of the mountain ridges. I highly recommend this one when you need a relaxing break!
• Pretty Place – If you’re looking for a fun time with friends with the best views—for sunset or sunrise, this one is for you! Located about an hour and fifteen minutes from campus, this chapel boasts views that will literally take your breath away. You get a chance to see God’s creation stretched out in front of you and look at the mountains. This is great for taking a Bible up there and having some time to talk with God, or just thanking Him for His beautiful creation.

 

Other mental health tips:

• Exercise – Go for a walk or a run. Whether you’re an athlete or haven’t worked out a day in your life, your body will feel 10x better when you just get your body moving.
• Self-Care – Figure out what self-care looks like for you. It could be taking a long shower, painting, reading a book, journaling, or just doing something you enjoy. Make your mental health a priority!
• Go Outside – Get some fresh air, clear your head, or just enjoy being out in God’s creation. A change of scenery never hurt anyone!
• Drink Water – This one sounds a bit odd to include, but seriously. If your body isn’t healthy, it’s hard to keep your mind healthy!
• Find Your People – Find the circle of people that can pour into you, and that you can also pour into. Having a good circle of people around you that point you to Jesus and stick by your side will make a world of difference!

Read Your Bible – Finding time to slow down and pray or soak in God’s Word always bring peace in a stressful day. Not only that, but it will help you grow closer to Jesus, which should ultimately be our goal at the end of the day!