As I sit here and write this article this week; I forgot what it was like to have free time. We are hitting the ground running when it comes to school work, I'm adjusting to living with roommates again, and I also have a job that keeps me really busy. The fall is such a busy time for a college student because we all have to find our balance between studying, socializing, and taking care of ourselves.
Here are some of my favorite ways to get some "me time".
1. Journal
This seems like such a small thing to do but I can be in tears because of stress and tiredness and simply writing down my emotions or even just what I did that day; is so incredibly soothing. It is a time for me to express myself without judgment and truly own my feelings. I find that if I don't journal before I go to bed, I lay in bed full of worries. Journaling is way for me to ease some anxieties and stress.
2. Grab a cup of tea/coffee
There is something therapeutic about holding a cup of warm coffee or tea and truly enjoying it for it's flavor and not because you need to stay awake. I'm guilty of having a cup or two of coffee in the morning because I think there is no way I'm going to make it through the day. My true "me time" is when I make a cup of tea at two in the afternoon and actually enjoy it!
3. Read a book
Read a book that you actually enjoy; not something that you are required to read for class. Even if you just read for 15 minutes, this time allows you to calm down and read about something that actually makes you happy. I have a list of books that I need to read; this has been a common "me time" habit for me, lately!
4. Sit in the sun
Whether you go outside and sit in the grass for a little bit or you open the blinds and sit near a window. I always feel better after I soak up a little Vitamin D.
5. Indulge in some Netflix
There is nothing wrong with having a series to binge watch on Netflix. I have many that I'm in the progress of completing. I highly suggest, "The Get Down" though, it's incredible!
6. Take a nap
Sometimes this is the best form of "me time" because it's one of the most refreshing things you can do! There are many times that I can't continue on with my day until I take a little nap, even if it's just twenty minutes. Don't feel guilty either, naps are very important.
7. Practice mindfulness
Actually pay attention to your thoughts and feelings. This can be really hard to do because our brains are naturally going to want to drift off and think about something different but try to center yourself back to thinking about the way you are feeling at the moment. This is a great time to practice to taking some deep breaths.
What are some of your "me time" activities?
