From One Student to Another: Self-Care
Trying to balance school, a job or two (because let’s face it, we’re broke), and a social life is exhausting – stressful even. It sounds impossible to manage all of these things, let alone set aside time to rejuvenate yourself; there just isn’t enough time in the day.
It wasn’t until recently I realized that dedicating a full 24 hours to decompress could actually revitalize my entire being. I call it, “Sidney’s Self-Care Sunday.” Dorky? Maybe, but since I have initiated my weekly holiday, I have actually been able to function as a human being should. Below are a few remedies that I have found to brighten my outlook on college life. Incorporating these tips and tricks into my Sunday routine has dramatically benefited my well-being. Hopefully, they will do the same for you!
Breakfast and Mental Health
First thing’s first, set a fixed time to wake up, even if that means setting seven alarms. Wake up as early as you can, while still being able to feel refreshed. I wake up at 9:30 a.m.; any earlier and I would be a witch with a capital “W.” Then, make your bed and open your window. I’ll be honest, tons and tons of blankets make this task difficult. However, instead of buying my daily iced coffee, I splurged on buying a duvet. They are heavier, warmer, and it’s only one blanket, so it simplifies everything! I find that it is next to impossible to feel glum when my environment is so bright and clean.
Next, take a shower. Who doesn’t like the feeling of scalding hot water first thing in the morning? If extremely hot water doesn’t tickle your fancy, feel free to take a lukewarm shower or bath. It is important to take your time, don’t rush, and focus on pampering yourself. Blast some Bruno Mars from your speakers, use your favorite products, throw in a body scrub, and BOOM. You no longer look and smell like a college student. Please don’t let that offend you, but the tell-tale signs of wearing a “messy bun” and a hoodie with the overwhelming smell of perfume means one of two things: you either pulled an all-nighter, or you forgot to shower.
“I like to put on a concert with the Jonas Brothers in the mornings. Whether I’m singing in the shower or jamming out in my room, it is the best way I can relax!”
Carrington Hawthorne, Senior
Furthermore, take your time to eat a feel-good breakfast. Whether you consider that to be fruit and oatmeal or a traditional Irish breakfast including bacon, sausage, baked beans, eggs, mushroom, tomatoes, potatoes, toast, and oh, can’t forget tea or coffee. Eat your breakfast in a quiet area – outside, living room, bedroom, wherever you feel most at ease. Once you finish eating, take a moment to sit cross-legged and close your eyes, slowly inhaling and exhaling for at least five minutes. If the silence is overwhelming, I 100 percent understand; just put in your headphones and listen to soft music (I recommend instrumental). In your mind, list the things you are grateful for and think of the things you have to do for the day. Not only does the proper intake of oxygen help to get the blood pumping, but positive thoughts set a positive mindset for the day.
Lunch and Social Wellness
“I am an extrovert, which means I talk too much. Luckily for me, I have a bunch of extroverted friends who also like to talk. I always feel better when I surround myself with like-minded friends.”
Laura mays, senior
If you are an extrovert, like me, this is your favorite time of the day. Socializing with friends during lunch is the best way to brighten up your day. There is no need to spend money; we are college students, and it’s not very often we have money, so just pack a lunch and if the weather is nice, eat outside. Surrounding yourself with friends you genuinely get along with is such an encouraging way to stay positive. However, if your schedules don’t mesh, call a family member just to say you’re thinking of them.
Also, if you have time during or after lunch, sit down and work on some homework. I know that doesn’t sound very relaxing, but once you’ve completed your work and realize you don’t have to procrastinate it, you will feel the weight lift from your shoulders.
Dinner and Physical Health and Wellness
Nature is beautiful, but being a college student we don’t often have enough time to enjoy it. So, when you have the chance, instead of watching television or playing a video game, take the time to walk around campus. Throwing in a little bit of exercise at any point during the day is a great way to help you feel better about yourself, while also having the chance to connect with nature. If you really just can’t force yourself to walk around campus, sit in the quad or in your living room and stretch. You can do this while watching your show or playing a game. Just stretch your legs, try touching your toes, or do some yoga or something — anything to keep the blood flowing.
“I hate to exercise, but I always feel better after I do it. I think people forget yoga is a form of exercise. I thought it was the easiest form, but I was so wrong. Either way, it helps me to maintain balance and flexibility.”
Amber Cordle, senior
After you’ve done a little bit of exercising, light your favorite candle, and eat a wholesome dinner, something cheap and easy to make (You can refer to my previous article: Quick, Easy, and Dorm-Approved Recipes for some ideas.). Then, put on a face mask (Men can do this, too. Don’t be embarrassed; self-care is attractive.) and turn on your favorite movie or read a book. Simply lay back and enjoy your “you” time.