It’s hard to keep up a healthy lifestyle amidst the busyness of college. My schedule is so full that often my health is the last thing on my mind. Finding the motivation to exercise and eat right is never easy, especially because I build it up in my mind to be so difficult. However, there are little things you can do to get in better shape that aren’t intimidating at all. While working out everyday at 6 AM or never eating sweets would be great things to do in a perfect world where we all have flawless self-control, this is definitely not practical for most of us. Here are a few ways to improve your health more easily.
Try a group fitness class
Sometimes, finding the motivation to go to the gym on my own is difficult. But if I’ve made plans with a friend to attend one of the many fun classes at Wilson or Brodie, I’m much less likely to skip. I’ve taken cardio dance as well as yoga, and they have both been great classes. The instructors are so encouraging, and exercising with friends makes the whole experience much more fun; often it’s so enjoyable that I forget I’m exercising at all.
Keep healthy snacks in your room
One way to avoid unhealthy late night snack sessions is to rid your room of treats like cookies and chips. You will be much less likely to give in to a craving if the box of oreos isn’t staring you right in the face. This doesn’t mean snacking is necessarily bad; you just have to pick the right snacks. Just try keeping healthy treats like fruit, Greek yogurt, and almonds instead. These foods, which are packed with protein and fiber, often keep you so satisfied that you no longer crave French fries at all.
Get up and move
Long study sessions always wear me out and make me want to take a nap. However, I’ve found that taking breaks to get up and move around a little really wakes me up. My roommate and I occasionally blast our favorite songs and dance around or do a few jumping jacks. This helps increase your blood circulation and relieves stress. It’s also a welcome relief from staring at a chemistry textbook for hours.
Play good music
Going on a run or the elliptical can get extremely monotonous, and sometimes I get so bored that I just stop. Playing my favorite music though keeps me motivated and makes the whole experience more fun. I especially love listening to Taylor Swift’s “Shake it Off.” It may be overplayed, but it always puts me in a good mood. Often, I’m having such a good time that I forget how hard I’m working.
Try these tips to motivate you to become healthier this week! It doesn’t have to be as hard as we all think it is.