University of Missouri

Truman finds his happy place.

May 2, 2017
Story by Karen Pojmann
We get it, Tigers. You’re under a lot of pressure. You’re studying for exams. You’re grading papers. You’re readying the campus for an onslaught of commencement guests. But Mizzou wants you to relax. We want you to stay clear-headed and unruffled as you tackle these end-of-the-semester tasks.

So take a little break. Check out the veritable Zen garden of chill sessions and tension-reducing oases Mizzou offers:

1. An actual botanic garden.

Tulips grow near Jesse Hall. Photo by Shane Epping.

Literally stop and smell the roses. Or the tulips. Designated an official botanic garden in 1999, the University of Missouri campus holds 11 thematic gardens, three tree trails, seven special plant collections and thousands upon thousands of really, really pretty flowers. And it’s all around us! Use this map to find your favorite plants, or schedule a guided tour.

2. An aquatic wonderland.

Tiger Grotto. Photo from MizzouRec.

Mizzou has one of the swankiest university recreation complexes in United States, and the resort-like Tiger Grotto is its crown jewel. Palm trees. Hot tub. Sauna. Steam room. Zero-depth pool entry with a high-powered vortex, lazy river and waterfall. Instant vacation.

3. Serenity now!

Students practice a form of meditative yoga nidra known as iRest. Photo from Student Health.

Mizzou is so dedicated to the big om that we offer interdisciplinary contemplative studies. But you don't have to enroll in an academic course to find peace. Check out Mindful Yoga for Stress Management weekdays through Friday, May 5 in the Newman Center. Or try Tai Chi & Qigong with BREATHE 3-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, in the MU Student Health Center. Namaste, Tigers.

4. The magic touch.

The MizzouRec's zouLIFE provides professional spa services such as manicures, pedicures, facials and massages. Photo from MizzouRec.

There’s so much free and low-cost massage happening at Mizzou that there’s really no excuse for carrying all that tension in your shoulders. Get a 15-minute chair massage at the Relaxation Station in the MU Student Center. For even deeper relaxation, invest (about $1 a minute) in a specialized full massage session at MizzouRec, which offers a 20 percent discount on spa services May 8-12.

5. Puppies.

Daisy, a puppy with a purpose, frolics in Peace Park. Photo by Connor Bjornnes.

Studies show that playing with puppies can lower your blood pressure and reduce your stress. Play with puppies! Join us 2-4 p.m. Wednesday, May 3, in Kulhman Court for stress relief and a Central Missouri Humane Society fundraiser. Pay $5 to play for 10 minutes and $3 to play for 5 minutes.

6. The Force.

Star Wars fans can catch a showing of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, with free pizza and soda, on Reading Day.

Lose yourself in the silver screen. Watch second-run films for only $1 in Wrench Auditorium, Memorial Union, sponsored by the the MSA/GPC Films Committee. On Reading Day, May 5, admission to any of the three showings of Rogue One comes with free pizza and soda. Light sabers not included.

7. Comfort food.

A breakfast quesadilla from Plaza 900 could be the most important meal of your day. Photo from Campus Dining Services.

Back away from the vending machine! Mizzou is here to take care of you with fresh, hot meals. In addition to its usual fantastic fare, Campus Dining Services offers a late-night breakfast 9-11 p.m. Sunday, May 7 in the MU Student Center. Meanwhile, get a burger at The Shack. Grab a snack (or coffee!) at either student union. Have dessert at Buck's Ice Cream Place. Behold the deliciousness.

8. A party!

Student Life holds an end-of-the-semester party. Photo by Jake Hamilton.

Blow off some steam at a raucous soiree. The Department of Student Life sponsors the end-of-the semester Mizzou-a-Palooza carnival 4-7 p.m. on Carnahan Quadrangle and concert 9-11 p.m. Thursday, May 4, in Jesse Auditorium.

9. Therapeutic shopping.

Mizzou's Farmers Market on Lowry Mall.

Mall, schmall. Mizzou's form of retail therapy is lovingly local. Shop at the Campus Farmers Market 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, May 4, on Lowry Mall.

10. America's pastime.

The Tigers play in Mizzou's new softball stadium.

Take yourself out to the ball game! What's more relaxing than an afternoon in Mizzou's new softball stadium? Watch the Tigers softball team take on Ole Miss May 5-7.

Bonus Tip:

Remember to breathe. Inhale … and exhale. Better?