The long, cold winter has finally come to an end and spring has finally sprung. As we trade in our puffy coats and boots for tanks and OTBT wedges, we need to keep in mind that our closets are not the only things that need spring cleaning. The end of the semester is quickly approaching, so we came up with a few tips on how to keep that positive mindset in order to finish out these last couple of weeks.
1. Establish a routine
Whether it’s just a basic morning-and-night routine or going to yoga every Wednesday, make sure you stick to the same thing. Our bodies need to feel adjusted and without a routine, we’re left feeling tired all of the time. Setting a routine will allow you to stay organized and stress-free. Try setting aside 10 minutes every Sunday to write out your weekly calendar–add in due dates and exam dates as well as when you want to do laundry, clean your room and take out the trash. This way, it won’t slip your mind and you can keep the last-minute panic to a minimum,
2. Take time for yourself.
We can all agree one thing–college is hard. With mountains of essays and assignments, it might seem like you have zero time for yourself–but don’t worry, there’s always time for you. Whether it’s something as simple as a 15-minute power nap or an afternoon lunch and shopping trip, taking a step back from “real life” will allow your mind to take a break and reset.
3. Wake up earlier.
I know what you’re thinking, “Why should I wake up early when I go to bed so late?” The simple answer is: you should not be going to bed and waking up on the same day. Earlier starts to your day means less stress–you don’t need to feel like you’re in a rush every morning and you can take your time waking up. Try setting your alarm back just 5 minutes for a few days. Then, work your way up to 10, 15, and 20 minutes. You will definitely thank yourself (especially the first time you see the sunrise).
4. Exercise.
Sometimes it seems almost impossible to find time to exercise, but you should find time to fit it into your weekly routine. Getting 30 minutes of cardio a day can be a great energy booster as well as keep your mood up. One useful tip that I learned my freshman year is to bring your readings to the gym. Trust me, I know how bad it sounds (reading and exercising?) but propping your textbook up on the treadmill is a lot more beneficial than you’d think.
5. See the glass half-full.
So you wake up late for your 8 am that’s 15 minutes away and it’s pouring rain–but hey, at least you get to show off your new Lily boots. Always look at the bright side! You will definitely not be helping your bad days if you are always focusing on the negatives–it could always be worse. Keep in mind all that you have to be thankful for.
6. Drink water and eat clean.
As days get longer, we get busier and finding time to work out becomes a lot more difficult. Drinking water and having a clean diet will prevent those tired and sluggish feelings–and it will definitely make that evening class a little easier to go to. Rather than skipping breakfast and having a coffee, put fruits and veggies in the freezer the night before. It feels and tastes better and will do an even better job of keeping you energized throughout your mornings.
7. Go outside.
If anyone knows how difficult it is to watch ‘just one more’ episode of Grey’s Anatomy, it’s me. It’s easy to get lost in a new Netflix show when the high temperature for the week is 36 degrees and there’s a chance of snow but, now that it’s finally sunny and 75, try to make it a point to go outside for something other than classes. There is nothing like the first couple of warm days in the spring and they should not all be spent behind closed doors. Go out for a walk or grab friends and sit on the quad; take it all in! It’s an instant mood booster.