As the weather gets colder, finals get closer and it feels like we just seem to get weaker. Walking to class in the morning, frosty winds are like a battle. You start getting less hours of sleep, you’re stressed out, your immune system immediately drops. Don’t let the weather and the stresses of the season defeat you, here are some tips for staying strong.
-
Eat richly.
Firstly, eat. Make sure you eat. Otherwise, your body will not receive any fuel and not only will you probably get sick, but you will most likely not function at your fullest. When we have so much going on we sometimes forget to eat all of our meals. Think about including immune boosting foods. These will help you fight off any viruses that are floating around and will also give you energy to crush those finals. Some of these foods include oatmeal, garlic, tea, broccoli, and yogurt. Chicken and beef if you are not a vegetarian. And of course, plenty of fruits and vegetables!
2. Sleep.
You know when you stay up at night and write an essay, then read it the next morning and it looks as if it was written by a preschooler? Yeah, you want to avoid that, especially in finals. I don’t know what the obsession is with pulling all nighters, when it actually makes your work worse. Sleep at least 7 hours. If you don’t, squeeze in a nap between classes or before starting that essay. Sleep, like food, is fuel. It will make you strong and resistant.
3. Avoid toxic substances.
Sorry, but you’re gonna have to drop the glass of wine for now. Alcohol makes your immune system weaker. If you are a cigarette smoker, forget that as well. Junk food is included. All of these things will slow you down, make you feel terrible, and could prevent your body from fighting off sickness.
4. Self care.
If you have read some of my previous articles, you know I’m a huge self care advocate. Balance out the stressful work with warm showers, a good movie, or maybe a fun podcast that will empower you. Trust me. You don’t have to be drowning in work all the time. If you organize yourself properly and prioritize the important things, you will have time to reward yourself in between finals. What I like to do after finishing a load of work is take a bubble bath and get cozy in my bed.
5. Catch some rays.
When you’re exposed to sunlight, your body produces vitamin D. This vitamin helps fight diseases (including those minor colds that drain you) and even improves your mood. Walk on the sunny side of the street, stop by a park on your way to class, and try spending time below bright rays of sunshine. Every little bit will help.
Life during finals in the wintertime especially doesn’t have to be a total struggle. Take care of yourself and show your finals who’s in charge that way you can enjoy the holidays without feeling like you need to recuperate your life.