It’s that time of the semester. I feel it. You feel it. We’re all going through it together. Applying to thousands of internship applications, never-ending exams and beginning final projects. It is rough out here. During this stressful time, it is important to also prioritize yourself and find time to decompress. I’m here to be your college fairy godmother, if you will. I want you all to get through these trying times and still have fun this fall semester, and I plan on doing so. Here is my list of wellness checks to help you find ways to get through college stress and pave the way for a successful semester.
Make Your Bed
I know this sounds silly, but making your bed is the first important step in a productive and fulfilling day. Studies show that this act sets the tone for the rest of the day. If you can make your bed, you can do anything. Start with the low gratifying tasks and then shoot for the larger ones like completing a big assignment. At the end of the day, it’s the one who makes their bed that makes success for themselves.
Go For a Walk
In a time of peak stress and duress, it might be hard to catch your breath and clear your head. I find the best way to clear your head is to put your laptop and books down and step outside. Bundle up and put on your comfy sneakers and breathe in the crisp fall air. My favorite walks are right off campus, taking in the beautiful Fairfield neighborhoods and the vibrant foliage. A quick 30 minute stroll might just be the break you need, allowing your mind a rest and powering your body in the process.
Hit the RecPlex
Feeling down? Stressed? Hopeless? All the more reason to pick yourself up and head to the gym. Whatever your workout style is – pilates, yoga, lifting or cardio – this is the perfect pause in your busy day to prioritize your health, wellbeing and spiritual wellness. Exercising releases endorphins, natural chemicals causing feelings of euphoria and happiness. Overall a quick workout plays a huge role in mood boosting and a higher state of contentment.
Schedule a Wellness Night
Sometimes, you just need a night to take a long hot shower, drink a nice cup of tea, do a facemask and relax in your robe. A nightly reset is key for a productive and successful day. Do as much as you can during the day to prioritize yourself at night.
Listen to a Zen Study Mix
Cramming in a study session? You need some tunes to set the vibe and lock in. I recommend some chill Lo-fi beats to zone in and get everything done. While you’re jamming you will lose track of time and finish the work faster than ever.
Treat Yourself (Without Guilt)
Sometimes you just need to listen to your body, and your head. Whether you’re in the mood for a caramel syrup dessert coffee, a hot chocolate in the cold weather, in need of a nap or want to watch your favorite show, it’s okay to choose yourself. Sometimes, you can take a minute to slack. A mini reset is essential. As is self-care. Self-care is essential, not selfish.
Unplug to Recharge
As someone who finds themself doomscrolling from time to time, I am aware of the distraction technology and a cell phone causes. It takes away from locking in and getting our work done. Take time to set timers on your apps or even shut down your phone for a few hours. You deserve to focus, without interruptions.
Eat a Good Meal
In the midst of a really busy day filled with studying, writing essays and applying to internships, it is important to make time for a good meal. Add fuel to your fiery day. Whether it’s a meal with whole ingredients, including chicken, vegetables and rice or even a boxed mac and cheese, it’s important to eat and get your belly full.
Journal It Out
Do you still feel lost? Like nothing’s helping and there’s nobody to talk to? Talk to yourself. Get out your favorite journal or buy a cute one if need be and start writing. Write down your thoughts, feelings, worries and to-do lists. Get it all out. It will make you more organized and give you the incentive to get it all done!
Whatever you’re going through this semester, just remember you are not alone. Reach out to your friends, family and even the counseling services provided through Fairfield to work through your stress and anxiety as a student. Try the tips on my list, when I’m going through a tough week, these strategies always get me out of my funk. It is important to prioritize and treat yourself. You got this.