Eva Wu, G9 吴佳瑞

Weekends are not only a precious opportunity to relax but also a perfect time for personal growth and reconnection. They provide a vital pause from the weekly routine, allowing me to recharge and focus on what matters most.

My favorite way to begin a weekend is by going out with my family. This past weekend, for instance, we took our dog to the Shekou area. Sharing a delicious meal while chatting about our week, we felt completely relaxed and carefree. Since I live at school during the week, these two days are my only chance to be with them. I believe that reconnecting with loved ones, whether family or friends we don’t often see, does more than just lift my mood; it nourishes my spirit and gives me a deep sense of fulfillment that carries into the coming week.

To energize my body, I go swimming on weekends. Swimming is an excellent full-body workout with numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. It promotes metabolism, builds muscle strength due to water’s natural resistance — which is about 12 times greater than air — and is a fantastic way to relieve stress. For me, gliding through the water has a meditative quality that washes away any lingering anxieties. I find a 40-minute session to be ideal; it is enough to feel invigorated without being overly exhausting. This practice leaves me feeling refreshed, both physically and mentally.

Furthermore, weekends offer the perfect quiet hours to indulge in my love for reading. I dedicate my spare time to books about food culture and travel, subjects that spark my curiosity. Recently, I have been reading a fascinating book about Australia, which delves into its unique landmarks, wildlife, and ecosystems. Reading such material does more than entertain; it broadens my horizons. It is a gentle way to learn about the world, improve my language and writing skills, and deepen my understanding of different cultures. The key is to choose books that genuinely interest you, turning reading from a duty into a joy.

The ideal weekend for me is a mix of social connection, physical health, mental stimulation, and restful solitude.