Escaping from finals frustration in Long Beach

Long Beach has a wide array of relaxing spaces, perfect for a finals study date, fulfilling meals or private meditation.

BY CHRISTAL GAINES-EMORY Editor in Chief

Students attending Long Beach State have the opportunity to enter the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden for free. The garden features a wide variety of vibrant flowers, seating areas, photo opportunities and the beloved koi fish. The garden also offers many mental health activities throughout the year, including yoga on the lawn and meditation classes. Reservations are required to visit the Japanese Garden, to reserve a spot visit their website. A reservation allows up to six guests to visit the garden.

CHRISTAL GAINES-EMORY / Daily Forty-Niner 2nd and PCH offers many retail store options as well as casual seating with a marina view.

The Seal Beach Animal Care Center offers volunteering opportunities, allowing visitors to spend time with cats and dogs. Petting animals has proven to naturally reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels as well as lowering blood pressure. SBACC is a nonprofit, non-kill animal shelter with plenty of animals to nurture. Anyone interested in volunteering for SBACC can apply online, they can choose to volunteer for either cats or dogs and attend an orientation.

CHRISTAL

The 2nd and PCH shopping center offers opportunities for retail therapy along with different cuisines including homemade pasta, sushi and modern Mexican food. Overlooking the bay, 2nd and PCH is a popular place for study dates and

Bolsa

hang out sessions. With free Wi-Fi, ample parking and a variety of dining and drink options, 2nd and PCH is a great spot for CSULB students to escape from campus.

Ecological Reserve

The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve offers visitors an ideal respite in nature, complete with snowy egrets, small fish and natural landscapes. From mudflats to marshes, the reserve provides habitats to hundreds of different species of plants and an- imals. The Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve offers wildlife viewing, tours and five miles of hiking trails all for free. Located at 18000 CA-1, Huntington Beach, the reserve is a short and scenic drive from the CSULB campus.