As many of you probably are, I am guilty of using Netflix to fill up my free time. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes a good Netflix binge is just what you need after a long week, but there are so many other things you can do. Here is a list of my 7 favorite alternatives to Netflix/Hulu/Amazon Prime:

1. READ FOR PLEASURE
I don’t remember the last novel I read just for the heck of it. Sometimes we get overloaded with textbooks and assigned readings a college students, that we forget about the thrill of diving into a good story. Reading gives you more freedom than tv and movies, allowing your creativity to flow.

2. GO FOR A WALK
When was the last time you just wandered? College students are always hustling around campus, going from one class to the next, there seems to be a lack of leisurely exploring surroundings. Head out your door with the intention to see your neighborhood. Try not to use your phone and just start walking

3. CRAFT
Y’all should have guessed this would be somewhere on the list, me being an art major and all. The beauty of crafting is that you don’t have to be good at it! And it doesn’t have to involve paints or canvases, crafting can range from writing poetry, journaling, playing an instrument, collaging images cut from magazines-honestly anything that involves creativity is considered crafty in my book.

4. GAMES
My roommates and I like to have a good ol’ game night every now and then. Sometimes its card games, board games, darts, active games, we always try to mix it up. What I’ve found valuable about these nights is that it’s something we can all do together, it isn’t stressful and we always have fun.

5. THRIFTING
I see thrifting as a treasure hunt. You never know what you’re going to find when you walk into the store. Whether or not you purchase anything, it’s always and adventure to see what unique stuff you stumble upon and you may even find a new treasure!

6. COOK
Sometimes I find myself choosing quick options for meals, like frozen pizza, TV dinners etc. just so I can prepare food quick in order to get started on my latest Netflix fancy. Recently, my roommate has invited me to cook with him and even though it took longer than 3 minutes in the microwave, was a really fun process. I encourage y’all to find a recipe to try out, it can range from meals to desserts.

7. SLEEP
Okay, let’s be honest. How many times did you put watching shows ahead of getting enough sleep? It’s time to make that a priority! College students go, go, go and we’ve come to see watching shows as our way to rest when in fact it takes away from actual rest we could be having! So do as I say and not as I do, friends, turn off the TV and get some shut-eye.

Alright, Bears, that’s my go-to list of six things to do besides Netflix. I’m not saying y’all should cut Netflix (or Hulu, Amazon Prime etc.) out of your schedule all together. I’m not crazy. Just be intentional about how you spend your rare free time and explore different activities you can do to de-stress and rest.

Best,

Zoë