This semester, I’ve learned that getting back into the swing of things is always harder than you expect. We’re all striving for academic success, and sometimes that means forgetting to take care of yourself along the way. For me, forgetfulness became a habit, and before I knew it, I’d lost myself and routine in a cycle of stress.
I’ve realized, though, that taking care of yourself doesn’t have to be a complicated routine. I didn’t need to drop a ton of money on workout classes or dedicate an entire day to a cleaning and self-care ritual. All I had to do was introduce a few habits into my daily routine to keep myself feeling positive and ready to face the challenges of the semester.
1. Moving My Body in the Morning
The first habit I’ve included in my daily routine is morning yoga. It doesn’t have to be a workout; in fact, it’s just as beneficial if it’s not.
Starting the day with just focusing on my body brings my awareness back to myself mentally and physically. There are so many benefits to yoga. If I’m sore from hunching over a computer or sitting in uncomfortable classroom chairs, a quick morning stretch has been the easiest remedy to take this weight off of myself. Prioritizing my own needs also leaves me feeling better for the rest of the day.
There are a ton of different YouTube videos and online tutorials that can walk you through stretch routines lasting anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. It’s all up to preference and how much time you have. For me, finding a designated teacher made it easier to incorporate yoga into my mornings. Move With Nicole is one of my favorite YouTubers since her stretches are easy, and all you need is a little bit of space and time!
2. Incorporating Meditation
If you’re not used to it, meditation may seem kind of boring, but I’ve learned that the point isn’t to be an expert right away. Every morning or before bed, I try to make meditation a part of my routine.
It starts with me sitting comfortably on the floor, putting a candle in front of myself (or anything to bring my attention back to), and closing my eyes when I’m ready. I’ve found that meditating for 10-20 minutes each day for me has been a major stress reliever as it brings attention back to my own needs.
3. Making Time for My Hobbies
Another habit I’ve structured into my routine is having time for hobbies. It’s not all that complex, just a space carved into my schedule to make sure I get to do something I enjoy every day. Once I’ve finished all my work for the day, it’s tea time, and no, it’s unfortunately as elaborate as Bridgerton. Every evening, I like to make myself a cup of tea and simply sit and enjoy it.
If you’re super busy, this is a great way to make sure you include time for your own hobbies or interests. For me, I like to watch an episode of my favorite show or read a chapter of a book during my tea time.
Sometimes, self-care can be much more than just physical health. It can be about prioritizing your own needs and interests. Tea has been a great way for me to slow down a little at the end of the day and make sure I have at least one positive moment to look back on by tomorrow.
Taking time for yourself really doesn’t have to be complicated, and it definitely doesn’t have to be expensive. You owe yourself a few moments of attention every day, and these three habits have been great ways I’ve structured my routine to fulfill myself without taking too much time away from my responsibilities.
Striving for academic success doesn’t mean you have to forget yourself and become another cog in the machine. You’re in charge of living your own life, and enjoying the little things is a great way to make every day mean something to you.
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