Dear Harvard College Students, 

Now that finals are over, I hope you are looking forward to the winter break. 

Recharging during a break from our usual routines means different things to each of us. For me, this time of year presents an opportunity to take a deep breath*, clear my mind, and think about the people and experiences in my life that bring me joy and inspiration. Others recharge by taking up a new activity, reconnecting with family and friends, or doing nothing at all. I've been reading about how important it is to embrace the opportunity to do less—and to take a break form social media and the news cycle as a way to clear our busy minds. 

However you choose to spend the next few weeks, I hope you will take care of yourselves. Nothing is more important than your health and well-being, and I hope you will have the chance to rest and unwind in the days ahead. 

I wish you all a peaceful, restful, and enjoyable break, and I look forward to seeing you again in January. 

Semper veritas, 

Rakesh Khurana
Danoff Dean of Harvard College

*My yoga class starts with an inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale for 6 seconds. 

Repeat a couple of times.