College is kind of like a NASCAR race; we fuel ourselves up with minimal sleep, tons of coffee, and whatever food is fast and easy, and then we just go, go, go. We go from class to the library to work to extracurriculars, then back home for more homework, and suddenly it's 3 AM and you have class in five hours. We keep moving in this never-ending circle, and a little voice in the back of our heads is telling us that we are doing too much, but we don't listen. We don't listen until it's too late and our bodies are crashing at a really inopportune time.
I had to learn this lesson the hard way. I used to think that school was my most important priority--even over my own health. I didn't listen when my run-down body was begging me to slow down and take care of myself. I ended up crashing and coming down with a pretty bad case of pneumonia. It wasn't until I developed a fever that I decided it was time to stop. Just stop. And in my week of relaxation, I've come to realize a few tips that I think are important to share with all college students, especially those who feel themselves becoming ill.
1. Without a healthy body and mind, your schoolwork and other responsibilities won't be done to its best ability.
I mean this kind of seems like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how often you put yourself on the back burner for everything/everyone else. Sometimes we have to put ourselves first, and you know what? That's okay. In fact, it's more than okay--it's completely normal, not to mention healthy. Take a break if you need it.
2. Drink water. LOTS of water.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Water is so important to keeping you feeling refreshed and energized. It's also really great for combating the dry winter air and acne. So put the coffee down and pick up a water bottle--you'll thank me later.
3. Hot tea with honey is a life-saver.
When you have a sore throat or if you're starting to lose your voice, a cup of this every day will coat your throat and relax the muscles, allowing you to heal much quicker. It's also a great way to unwind before bed--decaf, of course!
4. Fuel your body with more natural foods.
I know a cold slice of last night's pizza sounds like a really good option for breakfast, but try reaching for some fruit and yogurt instead. You'll feel more energized for the day ahead of you, instead of weighing yourself down with greasy, processed food right from the start of the day. This is especially important when you're sick. Filling your body with healthy foods will help you recover more quickly.
5. Sleep is not for the weak--it's necessary for survival.
Sleep in college may seem like an anomaly, but trust me--it's necessary. It's tempting to keep pushing through your homework when it's the wee hours of the morning, but please just go to sleep. Your body needs at least eight hours to effectively recover from the day and to recharge for the next. School should not be coming in the way of your sleeping schedule. And as much as it might pain you to go to bed with unfinished work (like it does for me), your body is telling you it needs rest, so listen to it.
6. Most importantly, when you start to feel the effects of stretching yourself too thin, listen to your body and relax.
Don't push yourself. If you aren't feeling up to the task at hand, take a break and relax, especially if you're starting to feel sick. It's important to get better faster than to keep up with your busy schedule and feel the consequences later.
Remember, your physical, emotional, and mental health come before anything. Stop putting yourself to the side for everything else. You're important too, so start treating yourself right. And when your body starts to show signs of illness, don't ignore it. Listen to what your body, soul, and mind are trying to tell you and treat yourself with love.
