As this pandemic continues without a clear end in sight to look forward to, it can be easy to lose motivation and slip into a slump. Even if you live with roommates, it can still feel lonely to be doing online classes where the bedroom becomes the classroom. Especially if you are enrolled in asynchronous classes, it can seem difficult to stay on track throughout the week. What I find helpful is creating and sticking to a schedule. Routine is necessary in maintaining your mental health and staying on track with assignments.
I also noticed that exercising regularly helps maintain my positive mood. I exercise in my small room with a few weights and a yoga mat–it’s that easy! I usually do some exercises that I enjoy so it’s a fun experiences and not something to dread doing. Even following along to some Tik Tok dances is a great way to get your cardio in while also having some fun dancing! I have also taken up journaling every morning which has helped improve my mental health as well as allowing me to begin the day with a clear head and grateful heart. You can look up any writing prompts on Google if you are not exactly sure what to write about at first.
Eating healthy can seem like a daunting task, especially as a college student on a budget, but it will help improve your mood if you can fit in at least two healthy meals a day along with high protein snacks! I have found that protein pasta satisfies my craving for carbs but gives me that protein fix I need and it does not taste bad either!
Make sure to reward yourself after doing something productive to give you something to look forward to after your work! I usually treat myself to my favorite coffee–an iced mocha and a snickerdoodle cookie from Sweet Cakes Bakery in Peacedale, Rhode Island right near URI’s campus, which I highly recommend!
