By Andrea George, Stentorian Staff Writer
On October 6th, 11:00 P.M., Reynoldians were led outside to an eerily beautiful sight: a large, full moon hung high in the night sky.
The emphasis on mental health and taking time for oneself is a significant part of overall well-being. Melani “Mello” Harden, the CC of Modular 2, is a firm believer in looking up above in search of peace, explaining why she chose to take the Reynoldians out after check. “We don’t take that moment to pause for ourselves. So one, I knew it was just a cool night with the room because I happen to keep up with moon cycles. But I also think that at a pivotal time in y’all’s lives, maybe we can all just learn some de-stressing techniques.”
Living at NCSSM does not mean that you are a full-time student. Sometimes, taking time away from school can lead you to new hobbies or interests. Romi Reifscheider, a senior at NCSSM, agrees that taking time away from work is a good way to decompress. “I went outside that night to look up at the moon,” she muses. “I didn’t think I had those five, ten minutes to spare. But I went, and it was a pretty sight. Worth my time.”
Taking time away from school gives people a chance to slow down and reflect. Harden believes that people should take a moment to breathe and appreciate the world around them, even at night. “Take a step back, look at the beauty that beholds you,” she urges. “Because we talk about sunny days and oh, it’s a beautiful day, the sun’s out. But it could be a beautiful night.”
The moon–revered in literature and culture for its mystique–may hold the answers to your inner restlessness. Reflect upon the fruits of your harvest from the 1st quarter, and ready yourself for quarter two: As finals approach, and stress levels begin to peak, moonwatching might be the relief you desperately need. The moon looks a little different each day as it waxes and wanes. At NCSSM, there’s always the soccer field to gaze up in awe and get lost in the starry sky–just be sure to ask your CC beforehand.
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