On Tuesday, Feb. 17, Guilford College faculty, staff, and students got to enjoy the Guilford tradition of Wellness Day. 

A big part of navigating college life and preparing for the real world is understanding how to balance work with other aspects of life. This day gives students the chance to take a breath from the daily grind of academics and focus on their individual well-being. This tradition is unique to Guildford College, and recognizes its students as not just machines for productivity but as human beings who need self-care. 

Every student is able to use this extra day in whatever way they see fit, though it is encouraged to put down their school work and do something to benefit your personal wellness.

In an interview with a Guilford College junior, Campbell McCloy, she stated that Wellness Day, “Demonstrates that Guilford cares about its students, that it’s a community rather than just a group of people.” 

McCloy, like many other students, used this day as an opportunity to get some extra rest by sleeping in. She also took this day to dive into her own interests. McCloy is a big reader and spent her Wellness Day indulging in “Catching Fire” from The Hunger Games series as a break from her academic readings. 

Others have chosen different forms of self-care. Some students decided on a walk through the Guilford Woods. 

Kyle Lombardo, a current sophomore, took a more adventurous approach to this day. 

“I really enjoy spending time in the Guilford woods, and Wellness Day gave me the opportunity to do just that,” said Lombardo.

Lombardo and three of his peers used a tree identification pamphlet while exploring the woods. 

“I’m originally from Chicago, so the flora and fauna in North Carolina are quite different from what I’m used to. Other than the infamous Underground Railroad tree, [a giant tulip poplar], I really like the Cyprus trees down by the lake. I think their “knees” are fascinating and quite funny looking,” Lombardo said. 

By “knees,” Lombardo is referring to the roots of the Cyprus trees that protrude from the ground near the tree and resemble human knees. For their woods walk, they made sure to bring trash bags to pick up any trash left behind in the woods. 

“These woods have a rich history, and as people who want to enjoy them, it’s our collective responsibility to keep these woods in good shape,” he said.

Lombardo wants to encourage anyone who finds peace in this important part of campus to bring along something to carry out debris and “keep the woods a sacred place.” 

Whether students chose to spend their Wellness Day going for a walk, spending time with friends, exploring the Greensboro area, catching up on homework, or simply sleeping in, it is hoped that this day gave everyone a well-deserved break from their academic lives. 

This tradition is a testament to humanity and shows that the faculty at Guilford genuinely cares for everyone who walks through its campus.