Safe Spring Break
Safe Spring Break
After all the late-night study groups, early mornings, midterms, and clocking in and out, it’s finally time for a well-deserved break. That’s right, ECU, get ready to ditch those dark circles and throw on some sunglasses because the sun is out, and the ECU Well-Being Collective is going to be out on the Lawn to give you all the tools that you need to have a Safe Spring Break.
In the meantime, here are some of our tips to help you thrive during your time off:
SUN PROTECTION
While some of us might appreciate a solid tan, we also want to make sure that the sun is not becoming our skin’s worst enemy. Yes, I’m talking about the dreaded sunburn.
Here’s how you can protect yourself from the sun:
Cover it up with Clothing
- Clothing can provide a decent barrier against UV (ultraviolet) rays. You can check the tag label on your clothes for a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) or an SPF (sun protection factor) to see if your outfit can help protect you from the sun’s rays.
Take Shade Breaks
- The sun’s highest intensity is usually between the hours of 10am-4pm. During that timeframe, try spending some time in the shade. Walk on the shady side of the street or take a nice rest under a tall tree. At the pool or the beach, an umbrella is your best friend.
Sunscreen
- Good old fashion sunscreen to the rescue. Wearing sunscreen is one of the best ways to prevent sunburn and even helps to prevent skin cancer and premature aging. When it comes to your purchasing choices, pay close attention to the SPF number. This tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays would take to burn your skin when using that sunscreen. The higher the value, the more protection.
- Example: if you were to directly apply SPF 15, it would take your skin about 15 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing that sunscreen.
STAY HYDRATED
Your body is made up of more than 60% water, so don’t forget your water bottle! It is commonly recommended by health professionals to drink about eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day.
Here are some ways to stay hydrated:
- Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Take consistent swigs throughout the day.
- Eat “water-rich” fruits and vegetables like peaches, cantaloupe, watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries
- Add sliced lemon to your water
- Try coconut water over fruit juice
- Drink electrolyte-infused water
- Remember to keep your cup to yourself! Never leave your drink unattended or take it from strangers.
Bonus: Don’t feel comfortable walking around with an open cup? Try using a NightCap Drink Cover Scrunchie and pop a straw in to enjoy!
SAFE TRAVELS
Sometimes, a change in scenery is just what we need to feel recharge our batteries. If you’re planning to ditch town for a few days, try taking some of these safety precautions to protect not only yourself but your home while you’re away:
- If you’re traveling, make copies of your credit cards, ID, and passport.
- Use the buddy system.
- Keep the garage down and don’t leave a spare key outside.
- Lock the doors and windows before heading out to your destination.
- Wait until you’ve returned from your travels before posting anything about your great time on social media.
Whether you’re planning to catch some waves in the Bahamas or surf Netflix on the couch all week, we hope that these tips were helpful in making you feel more prepared for a safe spring break.
Catch ECU Well-Being Collective partners: Campus Recreation & Wellness, Center for Counseling & Student Development, Collegiate Recovery Community, Dean of Students Office, Dining Services, ECU Police Department, Student Engagement, and Student Health Services on the Lawn for more resources, free food, T-shirts, games, music and more!