Anyone who lives in a cold area can attest to the fact that this time of year sucks. Seasonal depression is at its peak, especially with the overload of school work and lack of sunshine. However, summer is on the horizon and in nearly three months the days will be spent driving with the windows down and beach trips. It’s hard to keep a positive attitude this time of year, but there are a lot of habits we can incorporate into our routines to give us a better mindset. Here are 5 healthy habits you can start doing everyday.
- Working out
Getting the motivation to workout can be hard, but once you build it into a routine, it becomes much easier. Working out is a great way to get your endorphins pumping and your body moving. When I workout, I also feel better mentally and more accomplished to complete my tasks for the day. Working out also isn’t supposed to feel like a chore and is made to be fun. Find things you enjoy doing, whether it’s going to a spin class with your friends or going on a walk in the park, the options for finding workouts are endless!
- Get enough sleep
As college students, getting 7-8 hours of sleep is crucial for our bodies. Getting enough sleep also helps our minds and allows us to be more focused for the next day. In order to gain a good night’s sleep, start going to bed around the same time each night. This may be more difficult on the weekends, but during the week it’s important to try this. That way, your body will become more adjusted. Also, spending time before bed off your phone is crucial. I admit, I’m bad at this one, as I’m sure many people are too. However, trying to spend nights reading before bed and being away from technology can help us fall asleep more easily.
- Drinking water
Drinking a few glasses of water each day has great health benefits. It’s recommended to drink 8 glasses each day. There are many ways to make drinking more water enjoyable. For those who are not fans of the flavorlessness in water, add flavor enhancers or fruit like lemons and limes, to improve the taste. Hydroflasks or Yeti’s are great reusable water bottle brands and they will keep your water cold. Many reusable water bottles also inform you of your water intake and are filled with motivational quotes to encourage you to keep going.
- Journaling
I had never been big on journaling until this year. For Christmas, I was gifted with a journal where you write one sentence a day over five years. I think this is a great idea because it helps you reflect on your day and gives you something to look back on throughout time. There are also many types of journals with prompts that help you if you’re stuck on what to write about. You can write about things you’re grateful for, what you want to manifest in your life, etc. Journaling can be a habit that helps with anxiety and promotes organization. Writing something everyday is a beneficial way to find self improvement within your life.
- Find time for social interaction
It can be difficult to find time for your friends during the week. If there’s a big assignment due or just a lot going on, it can be hard to think about other things. Although it’s important to do things alone, it’s just as important to make time to be social. Whether it’s getting dinner with your friends or having a movie night, it’s important to make time for them. Finding time to be social is essential in life. Spend time with people who make you feel good about yourself and remind you of your goals.
College can be difficult for everybody, but it’s important to remember you are not alone in your feelings. Whatever self care looks like to you, find ways each day to incorporate healthy habits. It’ll help you feel better mentally and have a big impact on overall well-being.
XO, Annie