With finals week approaching, Cabrillo students can find a much-needed haven to decompress at the Take a Breather event in room 913. This initiative, now in its third semester, offers a dedicated space to recharge before diving into exams.

“We’ll have materials to decorate,” says Claudia Peixoto, the event organizer and student wellness coordinator. The relaxation space will also feature engaging activities like puzzles, Play-Doh, fidget toys, stickers, bead making, paint-by-numbers and coloring pages. For students transitioning to a new chapter, there’s even an opportunity to create summer bucket lists and explore writing prompts for endings and new beginnings.

“It’s just a nice thing to reflect on,” Peixoto adds, acknowledging the significance of such transitions as students graduate or move on to new careers.
To fuel both body and mind, snacks and calming tea will be available, with selections intentionally chosen for their brain-boosting properties.

“Carbs are our brain’s number one source of energy,” Peixoto explains, “and also healthy fats… that’s why we have like the nuts and seeds—because healthy fats are also essential for brain functioning.”

Beyond the activities, Peixoto and other students will be on hand to offer personalized support.

“We’ll have some handouts on stress busters,” she says. “We’ll talk to students about different study tips as well as breathing techniques for stress management or anxiety.”

This recurring event consistently provides a quiet sanctuary for students to take a vital break. “Burnout is very real,” Peixoto emphasizes. “I’m hoping they’ll come and be able to just decompress a little bit and then walk away with maybe a new tool that can help them during that week of finals.”

The event will take place on Wednesday, May 21 & Thursday, May 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.