Hey collegiettes! I’m currently sitting in a cubicle on the bottom floor of the library– what a lovely way to spend my afternoon on such a beautiful day! I would so much rather be outside in the sun, but unfortunately I have papers to write and finals to study for. This time of the school year is exceptionally hard to stay healthy during. When you’re stressed out and in need of relief, what better to comfort you than some sweets and baked goods? It is so tempting to reach for a box of cookies or order pizza during crunch time, but it is definitely NOT worth it! Here are some ways to help you stay healthy during finals week:
- Exercise!- It’s easy to think that you no longer have time to work out because you have too much school work to do, but exercise in a way really makes more time for you. It is important to take a break when you need it otherwise your level of efficiency will surely decline. Why not go for a brisk walk or quick run to get your mind off things and stimulate your sense? Get that needed boost to keep powering through your work!
- Eat multiple little meals instead of three large ones. Since you’ll be sitting down for most of the day, it’s not advisable to eat a heavy meal. In addition, not eating for a prolonged period of time can make you feel fatigued, especially since you’re expending a significant amount of mental energy. Eating smaller meals throughout the day can help you stay focused. Suggestions: hummus and veggies, Greek yogurt, check out the SELF Drop 10 diet snack section for more!
- Pick your study space wisely! As nice it is to study in Starbucks or a coffee shop, those pastries and baked goods can be such a tease. After long hours of studying, you may be more inclined to give in and just buy a brownie since it’s right there. The library can become very monotonous, but try to pick a new space without food– maybe outside or a study room in your dorm. I’ve done a lot of exploring with friends, and we’ve found a lot of cool rooms at my college that I didn’t even know existed!
- Stay hydrated- Dehydration can lead to fatigue, so make sure you get enough water throughout the day! Don’t overload on caffeine either– too much coffee can increase chances of dehydration and keep you up at night.
- Snack on FRUIT– Bananas, apples, and other fruits are great sources of sugar and energy that won’t cause a crash later! Healthy way to refuel! Instead of going for the processed foods that will give you a short burst of energy before making you feel sluggish, reach for the healthy option that also has nutritional value!
- Get enough sleep– Even though there’s a lot of studying to do, it’s important you still get enough zzz’s. If you budget your time accordingly and do a little bit of studying each day, it’ll be easier to get the recommended 6-8 hours a night and avoid late-night cram sessions. Obviously, it is easier said than done, but if you can do it, then you’ll be helping both your study habits and health!
- Do NOT buy junk food– simple as that. If you don’t buy it, then you can’t eat it! Save your money for something worthwhile!
- Get outside– With the gorgeous Spring weather in full swing, try to not stay cooped up in the library the whole day! Make an effort to go outside and get some of that needed Vitamin D! Take your mental health breaks outdoors!
I know it’s hard, but I’m going to do my best to follow these tips in the upcoming weeks! If you’re about to make a bad decision, try think of the reasons of why you want to lose weight in order to try and motivate you to stay on track. Good luck on finals everyone!!! And if you’re already home, I’m so jealous!
Have a great, healthy weekend!
xoxo
Nicole