The summer session has come to an end. Staying focused wasn’t easy with the sun blazing outside and that holiday feeling floating in the air. The pool, quick city breaks, daydreams of the seaside – they all felt just a step away. Relaxation seemed to be calling from every corner. But somehow, we held it together and got through it. Now, after all those exams, it’s time to press the reset button – not just for the body, but for the mind as well, and that inner balance which, let’s be honest, has taken a bit of a hit.
Let’s talk about how to recover after exams and start the new semester feeling recharged.
Mind: From Burnout to Zen
After weeks of memorising PDFs, tackling practice tests, and going over lecture notes, your brain certainly deserves a pause. And no, we’re not talking about endlessly scrolling on TikTok (although we all know it has its moments).
Now’s the perfect time to give your mind a proper refresh with activities that genuinely do you good. Why not pick up a personal development or psychology book, or maybe something uplifting that helps you better understand yourself?
If you're into exploring different cultures, play some music in a foreign language or read something light in Spanish, French, or Italian – whatever catches your interest. You mighht even learn new phrases without it feeling like actual studying. It’s that kind of an active break that relaxes your mind while still keeping it slightly engaged.
Another great way to clear your head is to take a pause from screens. A mini digital detox would be very useful – head outside without your phone, spend a bit of time with yourself, maybe even give meditation a go. Every now and then, your brain really does need a break from the digital environment.
And if you like a bit of quiet in the nature, Lacul Morii is your perfect spot. Located in CrângaÈ™i, it’s not far from several campus areas in Bucharest – Belvedere, Regie, GrozăveÈ™ti. It’s the kind of place where you are really just with yourself. It is truly a small oasis of calm right in the middle of the city. With the summer sun at full force, the breeze from the lake is instantly refreshing. The gentle wind across the water, sunsets reflecting on the surface, and that peaceful atmosphere – it’s something quite rare in a European capital. And that’s coming from someone who loves a good city break. Morii Lake truly lets you reconnect with yourself.
Body: Sleep, Hydration & Movement
After exams, many of us consume caffeine, feel tension in our backs from long hours at the desk, and miss social interaction. It’s time to reconnect with an old friend: a restful sleep, essential for proper recovery. Ideally would be for us to reset our sleep routine and respect basic sleep hygiene. Avoiding screens at least an hour before bedtime and not snacking near midnight go a long way. Instead, try reading a light book to help relax and fall asleep more easily.
Don’t forget to be active. Even though it doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym (although that’s a bonus). Try any physical activity you enjoy. Go for a gentle jog in Herăstrău Park or give something new a go, like yoga or dancing. With flexible gym passes such as ESX or 7card, you can join different classes whenever it suits you. There is no pressure from classic memberships.
If you find water relaxing, the Olympic swimming pool in Otopeni is worth a visit, especially with the student discount: just 20 RON for two hours, including sauna access. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, or swimming, these activities help release tension and clear the mind. Also, exercise releases endorphins, boosting your mood and energy just when you need it.
Balance – Find Your Own Rhythm
A full reset happens when your mind and body start working together, in harmony. That means finding a new rhythm, one that’s healthy and sustainable. It’s probably not the best idea to start off strong with 10 trips, 3 volunteer programs, and 5 extracurricular courses right after exams.
Look at what you really need. It could be more time for yourself, more social interaction, or better time management. Or maybe you just need to learn to say “no” to things that don’t bring value.
Resetting is a subjective process. Each person finds their own balance of rest, activity, breaks, and fresh starts. What matters most is allowing yourself the time to explore and truly find out what you need
Student life comes with its challenges, deadlines, and lots of pressure, and exams are definitely the hardest part. But after every hard period, there’s a time to chill out. Now’s a great opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy some well-deserved time for yourself.
Whether you enjoy a walk by the Morii Lake, a nap until lunchtime, a coffee with friends, or trying something new, the important thing is finding your own balance. A healthy mind relies on a healthy body, and vice versa. It all begins with us.