College is an exciting point in your life. From meeting new people to discovering your interests, college is a very impactful experience. However, it is also a high-stress period of time that involves endless hours studying and back-to-back exams all semester. During this time, healthy living seems like more of a luxury instead of a priority.
Many college students believe that there is simply not enough time to be healthy while also succeeding in classes and having a social life. While developing a life/work balance takes time and effort, there are multiple small changes you can make in your daily life to make healthy living in college a breeze.
1. Walk as much as you can
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Obviously you spend quite a bit of time walking to classes, but really try to make walking an integrated part of your day. Go for a walk with a friend, walk to your favorite coffee shop, or walk instead of taking a bus if the weather permits! Not only is walking a great form of exercise, but it is also a great stress reliever!
2. Bring a water bottle with you everywhere
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If you don't already have a bottle of water with you at all times, you really should start carrying one! Most of us don't drink enough water, and being in classes all day without a water bottle isn't going to help! Get into the habit of carrying a water bottle because you'll be amazed by how good you feel when you're actually hydrated!
3. Give meal prepping a try
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Meal prepping has honestly saved me so many times! If you've never tried it before, it's something very simple you can incorporate into your week that will save you a ton of time! All you need to do is set aside one day out of your week when you have extra time to choose recipes for the week and prep all your food ahead of time.
If you have minimal cooking experience, start with simple recipes and work your way up to more challenging recipes. Meal prepping may take some getting used to, but it will totally pay off! You'll save so much time during the week by having all of your food ready to go!
4. Try to limit eating before bed
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If you're someone that has a hard time falling asleep, eating right before bed can make it harder for you to fall asleep. Try not to eat anything a few hours before bed, and if you must eat before bed, try to eat something lighter. You'll be glad when you're not tossing and turning all night!
5. Do some form of self-care everyday
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It's pretty easy to neglect self-care in college. In between classes, and extracurriculars and jobs, it can feel like there is no time left in the day for self-care. I encourage you to set an allotted amount of time each day to do something for yourself. You can use this time for anything that will be beneficial to you. The possibilities are endless. Whether you decide to read a book, or meditate, or call a loved one, there is always something you can do for yourself!
6. Find an exercise routine you love and stick with it
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Exercising should never feel like a chore, but if it does it might be time to change up your routine. Keep experimenting with different types of exercise until you find something you like. If you're not a fan of running, you might love kick boxing or weight training. Once you begin a rountine you enjoy, you'll look forward to working out and it will have a more positive effect on your wellbeing.
7. Keep healthy snacks with you during your long days
Days are long when you're a student and you don't always have enough time in your day for a lunch break. Instead of hunting down a vending machine in the middle of your day, try packing snacks ahead of time! Keeping your body nourished throughout the day will you get through those back-to-back classes and help prevent that dreaded mid-day energy crash!
8. Don't neglect your mental health
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College is going to be stressful no matter what, but you shouldn't have to feel constantly overwhelmed. If your stress is impacting your sleep, physical health, and emotional wellbeing, it may be beneficial to seek out some resources. Whether this comes in the form of talking to an academic advisor, meeting with a counselor, or just reaching out to family and friends, don't be afraid to ask for help.
Getting a degree is not the only aspect of college. Your time in college encompasses so many more experiences like meeting life-long friends and discovering your passions.
So take care of your body, take care of your mind, and always seek out support when you need it.
