How to Build a Balanced Summer Without a Class Schedule
- BeWellAdmin
- May 21
- 2 min read
Let’s be real for a second. When summer break hits and your class schedule disappears for the first time in months, suddenly you’re either way too booked or not sure what day it is. Sound familiar?
Speaking from experience, without lectures and labs to anchor your days, it’s easy to let healthy habits slide. But when done right, summer can be the perfect time to reset, rest, and refocus on your own terms. Here’s how to build a simple, balanced routine that leaves room for both wellness and spontaneous fun.
1. Start With a Soft Structure. Let's get one thing straight: You don’t need a strict timetable for productive, balanced time off. But having a loose flow to your day helps. Try blocking off your days like this:
Morning = movement, breakfast, to-do check-in
Afternoon = work, studying (if needed), creative time
Evening = socializing, relaxing, screen-free wind-down
Even one or two anchors (like a morning walk or evening journal session) can create the rhythm you need to stay on track.
2. Fuel with Intent (But Keep It Chill). With no dining hall or packed lunch pressure, summer’s a great time to explore fun, affordable meals. Smoothie bowls, picnic salads, or snacky lunches can still be balanced and satisfying.
Need inspo? Check out our campus food map or easy recipe posts for inspiration.
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3. Build Movement Into Your Day — But Start Casually. Skip the pressure to “work out” constantly and focus on experimenting with movement that feels good. Think morning stretch, sunset walk, dancing with friends, or joining a group fitness class at the ARC.
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4. Protect Your Mental Space. Without assignments and exams looming, your brain finally has room to breathe. Use it! Try:
Weekly “no screen” mornings
Journaling or mood check-ins
Booking a free appointment with our counsellors or peer wellness coaches for a mid-summer refresh
Find any additional support via The Health Promotion Hub, now located on the fourth floor of the John-Deutsch University Centre (JDUC)!
5. Make It Yours. The best routine is one that supports you, not one that controls you. This summer, pick 2–3 small habits you actually enjoy, and stick with those. Whether it’s a regular walk to your favourite coffee spot or 10 minutes of guided breathing, small acts add up. To help inspire some ideas, my planned habits for the summer are to:
Try one new, healthy recipe a week
Go to the gym 3 times a week — and listen to my body's needs about the intensity of my workouts
Read my book instead of doom-scroll before going to sleep
Need a little accountability or support? Drop by the Wellness Hub at our new office in the JDUC, and let us guide you towards low-pressure ways to check in and feel good.
Remember: This summer, you’ve got time. You’ve got space. And we’ve got your back!
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