By now I’m sure you’ve heard about or read the usual tips on staying healthy in college, like eating a smart and balanced diet, getting plenty of sleep and exercising. But to piggyback onto those, there are also a bunch of smaller things us collegiettes can change in our lives to yield even more of a happy and healthy life.
1. Don’t get into the habit of wearing flip flips everywhere. Although this summer weather is creeping into September, flip flops shouldn’t be your main footwear of choice. This is especially true if you’re planning on trekking all over campus throughout the day. With little support, they can lead to arch pain and pinching.
2. Lighten the load. Try to downsize when it comes to shoveling all that you can into your backpack for the day. For example, share a notebook for multiple classes. It could be the difference in ridding away back and shoulder pain.
3. Curb your caffeine intake. I know coffee-drinking is almost synonymous with ‘college student,’ but research shows that there can be negative effects linked to having three cups a day (about 300 milligrams) or more. I’m sure headaches, dehydration and fatigue aren’t symptoms you are looking to endure during your college day.
4. Get up. You may know of the health benefits of exercise, but are you aware of the risks of a sedentary lifestyle? In college you are still young and still have time to make the necessary improvements in your life – including getting up from your chair whenever you don’t have to be sitting. This can help avoid overactive pancreas, neck strain and muscle degeneration.
5. Small talk it up. Some days your schedule is so crammed with class, the gym, schoolwork and a job that you don’t stop and engage in some small talk. Casual conversations even lasting about 10 minutes every day can actually keep your brain sharp and improve memory.