Self-care is the best care.
SELF CARE IS THE BEST CARE! Life is crazy especially college life, stress and sleep deprivation are fundamental hallmarks of the college experience, which often leads us to neglect our own care. If we forget about ourselves, then we begin literally breakdown… our bodies will become overwhelmed, which can lead to mental and physical health issues, especially with midterms being over and exams coming sooner than we all expect. I do not practice self-care as often as I should (which I promise myself, I will work on), but when I do, here are a few things that usually calm me down after a stressful day/week.
Taking a walk
Walk around campus and just take it all in, the sights, the smells, the sounds, all of it. Not only is this a good form of exercise, but it is also a way to get some alone time while enjoying nature. I put on some chill music and walk until I’m tired.
Journaling
One of the best ways to release is to write out your feelings. Maintaining a journal is so helpful when it comes to expressing yourself. Even if you just write down what you did that day, it can help you unwind and reflect.
Dates with yourself
Dating yourself is so fun because you know what you like better than anyone else. Spending time with yourself is super healthy and needed because you need attention from YOU.
Watching YouTube tutorials
You’re probably wondering how YouTube can declutter your mind; I honestly do not know. However, there is something about watching people make cakes and do crafts that makes me calm. Plus, you can learn a thing or two while unwinding.
Listening to music while doing…nothing Listening to music is great, but it’s even better when you’re doing absolutely nothing. I enjoy lying flat on my back with my eyes closed, and my music playing at a soothing level. I linked one of my go-to chill playlists. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2Se2TvZJskeFDXCtvDCdht?si=Hw-p7LN5SRea…
Spa days
Spa days are A-MAZ-ING. I don’t mean you have to pay a lot of money to go to a real spa (even though I recently had a professional massage that was BOMB), but you can create your own mini spa at home. Get a few girlfriends together, put face masks on, make some hot cocoa, and thrown on your favorite chick flick. Its fun getting pampered after a full week of being on the go nonstop, even If you have to do it yourself!
Finding ways to laugh
I’ve recently started following some comedians on social media, and they keep me laughing throughout the day. Also, I don’t care what people say about Tik Tok, IT IS FUNNY! Whenever I am swamped with schoolwork, I take a break and watch some funny videos to give myself a laugh, which clears my mind for a bit. Laughing is essential, so don’t forget to do so every day!
Unplugging
Lastly, I unplug from the world sometimes. I need to work on this also, but I do enjoy putting away my phone, turning the TV off and just enjoying some quiet time. Quiet time can be used for meditation, reading or even taking a quick nap. However, you chose to spend it, just enjoy it. Our lives can be so much sometimes, so it is good to unplug a few times a week.