With finals approaching, students are burdened by stress and psychological angst. Many students rely on self-care to make it through tough times, but self-care can get repetitive and boring. To get ahead of the stress while trying something new, here are four accessible self-care options on and around campus.
1. Farmers Markets
Austin has multiple farmers markets that take place each weekend. Farmers markets are a unique and fun experience that allow Austinites to gather and display what they have grown or crafted. Admission to the Sustainable Food Center Farmers Market is free, and free street parking is also available. There are also usually free samples to snack on while taking in the scenery downtown. Other Farmers markets in Austin include the Texas Farmers Market at Mueller, Hope Farmers Market on Plaza Saltillo and Barton Creek Farmers Market.
2. Take a hike.
Home to many hiking trails and paths, Austin has an abundance of spots that provide the perfect reprieve from studying. Examples include the Barton Creek Greenbelt and the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Both trails are great for a day hike. The Ann and Roy Butler trail, located next to Zilker Park, offers great views of Lady Bird Lake as well as the city skyline.
3. Treat yourself to a book at the largest independent bookstore in Texas.
BookPeople is a bookstore that provides a wide selection of literature as well as a unique Austin experience. The books are organized with reviews from the employees. If buying books is not the goal, customers can choose from a variety of knick-knacks or refuel at their coffee shop. Austin souvenirs can be purchased here, as well as crafted items such as jewelry and home goods. BookPeople is good for a short shopping spree or an afternoon of getting lost in the stacks.
4. Take a trip back in time by going to a drive-in movie theater.
Austin is also home to Blue Starlite, a mini urban drive-in movie theater. Going to a regular movie theater can be fun, but why not change it up by going to a unique drive-in movie theater? The Blue Starlite boasts that it is tiny and urban, which makes it both easy to access and a more personal experience. Blue Starlite has been up and running since 2009. They have events year-round, and they show old movies such as “The Goonies,” “Steel Magnolias” and “Grease.” Walk-in tickets cost $8, but a parking spot for the film costs $25 for two people. Blue Starlite is located at 2103 East M. Franklin Ave.
