Is amazing how often we forget to put ourselves first. Between trying to balance school, work and a social life, among so many other things, our personal health is often compromised. Just as you force yourself to complete a 5-page paper, you need to force yourself to make healthier lifestyle changes. You don’t have to go nuts, just start small. There are plenty of simple ways to lead a healthier and happier life.
Exercise more
Look at your schedule and plan out days where you will exercise. If you designate time specifically for working out, you’re more likely to do it than if you just wing it.
Let things go
Whether its a fight with your parents, a bad grade or an annoying guy, let it go. Take time to address the issue if necessary and then move on. Holding onto unpleasant feelings doesn’t help anything.
Get outside more
Soak up the sun as much as possible! Do homework, read a book, grab a bite to eat, anything to get outside. The fresh air and sunlight will do wonders for your mood.
Declutter daily
Take a little bit of time every day to clean up. A messy environment just adds on stress and when a mess builds up it’s more daunting to tackle. Whether it be throwing out unneeded junk, donating old items or putting away the laundry you washed last week, make a point to keep your space clear.
Put your phone away while focusing
Out of sight, out of mind. If your phone is out of reach, you are less likely to check it. It’s amazing how much time can be wasted spent scrolling through social media.
Create a peaceful nighttime and morning routine
This requires you to go to bed/wake up earlier but it will be worth it. Before bed turn off your electronics, drink hot water with lemon, stretch, read a little bit. Do things you find relaxing that will tell your body it is time to go to sleep. In the morning put on some upbeat music to energize you, make yourself a cup of coffee (or tea) and take time to eat breakfast.
Don’t over-commit
There is a fine line between taking advantage of opportunities you are offered and stretching yourself too thin. It’s great to want to be involved with as much as possible but sometimes you need to say no and take a day off.
Plan to prevent procrastination
Procrastination is a slippery slope and before you know it, your assignment is due the next morning and you haven’t even started. Make a plan of what you want to get done and when. Set goals for the day and hold yourself to them. If you decide you are going to study for a half hour every night before an exam, make it happen!
Count your blessings
As cheesy as it sounds, it’s so important. It’s so easy to get overwhelmed and focus on the negative but you need to remember all of the good things you have going for you. Whatever blessings are, take time every day to appreciate them.