In the hustle of life, we can tend to lose sight of our own health whether that be physical or mental. I know since school has started, I have been non-stop and I am most definitely not the only one. I can sometimes forget to do what's best for my body when I am going non-stop. Here are simple steps that I have included in my daily routine that have already helped me with my health. In college, or even young adulthood life, it is so important to take care of your body. Here are some easy steps to help you and to help your mind and body.
1. Eat.
And eat healthy.
I know I tend to under eat severely when I am busy. I can go to bed trying to remember what I had that day and not being able to recollect it. People need to eat to function, and just more than a granola bar. Try to have vegetables every single day. I know that when I have my big, full salads and steamed veggies, I feel so much better instantly. Every now and then a cookout run at midnight is definitely needed, but try to incorporate foods that will help your body when you are pushing it past its limits.
2. Drink Water.
And lots of it.
I am always carrying around a water bottle with me wherever I go. Between all my classes and getting caught up talking to professors or friends, I can forget to refill it. The thing that works best for me is drink thirty-two ounces over the period three hours (give or take). Drinking all this water keeps me hydrated, awake, and helps to keep my skin clear.
3. Take mini mediation time.
Whether that is taking a walk around your building or just going outside and soaking up some Vitamin-D, take some time outside and for yourself. Listen to some of your favorite music, walk around and get some fresh air in your lungs, and get your body moving. Doing this will help the next few hours of work, homework, or classes. By being active for even a short period of time, it gives you a mental break.
4. If you want to go all out with mediation, do Yoga.
Yoga is incredibly beneficial. Either take a class through youtube, at your University/College, or at a regular gym. Yoga can help improve your posture, which will help your overall being. Being in such a quiet, relaxing room can truly calm you and your mind down.
5. Go to bed without social media.
I always try to read a book before I go to bed so that I have my attention not on social media. I always find that I have an easier time going to bed and I sleep better. Not having my phone on when I go to bed gives me time to focus on myself and things I did or could've done better that day.
6. Listen to a song that makes you happy.
It doesn't have to be a trap song or a classic rock song like "Carry On My Wayward Son" (although sometimes those are my go-to's) but listen to a song either on the way to class or when you are taking your mini break that just makes you happy. Pick that one song that makes you incredibly happy either for many reasons or you don't know why it makes you so happy. Just take those few minutes to really enjoy something and that will always put a smile on your face.
7. Use essential oils to your benefit.
Essential oils are a life saver for anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, tired, etc. Peppermint can help boost your awareness, wake you up, and feel like you can do more. Lavender can really relax you, along with chamomile. Pomegranate can boost your senses so you feel more creative and confident. These essential oils are here for your benefit. You can find a simple oil diffuser on Amazon that requires no flames (perfect for dorms) and just requires water and your oils!
8. Get on a regular schedule...
So you can feel better in the morning and throughout the day.
It is a rare morning when I get up completely on time so I have enough time to fix my breakfast, take a shower, put on my makeup and then by that point I am rushing to put on a sorority t-shirt and jean shorts and then I am running out the door trying to make it to class. I know that once I am on a more consistent schedule, I can get ready better in the morning.
9. Always breathe.
It is very easy to cave into the feeling of being overwhelmed. The best thing to do when you are feeling overwhelmed is to breathe very slowly for four beats, then at the same tempo, breathe out for eight. Slowing down your breath can help slow down your blood pressure and heart rate.
10. Take time for you.
Whether that is hanging out with a few friends casually, going to see live music, or just hanging out with your friends in one of their rooms. I know I tend to only focus on the things I really have to do and while that is important, I can forget that I am still a college student and I should live a little. I love being able to spend time with friends and just relax, instead of being focused on school. College is a balancing act, know when to give and take when it comes to letting yourself go.
Be adventurous, take impromptu trips to the mountains with friends, and go to festivals. Stay focused on your work and/or school but it is so important to live while making a living. These memories will last forever, not a grade or a paycheck, so make these moments count.
