Welcome Home, Flourishers!
We are now well into the academic year. Filled with energy and potential to create a lifestyle that supports growth and balance. Whether you’re stepping onto the Farm for the first time or returning to continue your journey, transitions can bring excitement and uncertainty. The Flourish is here to walk alongside you, offering tools and stories to nurture your well-being, build connection, and embrace the opportunities ahead. For many of you, this may be the first time you’ve read our publication, and we’re so glad you’re here!
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Breaking Out of the Stanford Bubble
Between psets, job apps, and endless meetings, it’s easy to forget there’s a world beyond the grind. In this reflection, Ryan shares how he reframed his mindset around work and leisure and how stepping outside the Stanford bubble was a huge part of that. He also shares some of his favorite places to go off campus!
Returning to the Farm: Identity & Belonging
Whether you are a frosh or a senior, transitioning to life at Stanford can prove to be quite challenging. Among the bustle of choosing which classes to take, what clubs to join, and where to find time to slow down and breathe, it is easy to feel as though everyone has everything figured out except you. Maybe it is a Stanford thing, but it really does seem like all of your classmates have their futures planned to the T, doesn’t it? Here’s the thing: this is false! Sometimes, those who seem the most put together struggle the most with belonging.
Finding Balance in the Pursuit of Excellence
Life as a student-athlete often taught me to push harder, do more, and never stop working. But over time, I realized that constant striving took a slow, quiet, and dormant toll on my mental health. Through mindfulness and meditation practices, I began to see rest not as weakness but as strength. Balance, knowing when to push and when to pause, has become the heart of my journey. True resilience isn’t about carrying everything all the time. It’s about having the courage to set things down and breathe.
Put Well-Being on the Calendar
When I first got to Stanford I quickly realized that I needed a calendar to keep track of all my classes, meetings, and even social life. But I quickly realized I needed to craft a calendar that kept me well amongst all the busyness. I needed to schedule in time to care for myself. It’s helpful to know I have time specifically set aside for something, especially when adjusting to a new environment and schedule.
How to Ground Yourself in the Beginning of a New (Academic) Year
Especially if you are entering your first quarter on the Farm, you may feel like you have to learn an entirely new lingo, social culture, and the classes you have on your schedule. You might have seen your dorm channel with a DAHA/DAWA page- “Does anyone have/want any…” In the spirit of new dorms, novel decorations, and even cooler residential themes, does anyone want any grounding tips (or a quick distraction between classes)?
The Flourish
This online publication is your monthly guide to flourishing on the Farm. The Flourish provides tips, articles, and resources on key monthly health and wellness topics to support your mental health and well-being.