For some of us, the approaching spring break is an incentive to get in shape, whether our vacations will be spent at home or in a wild and tropical location. Here are five useful tips for staying healthy and getting ready to spend spring break right– plus, it’ll be a great jump-start for summer!
1. Drink plenty of H2O
Drinking water is absolutely vital. If you’re not drinking enough, your body starts to dehydrate, which can lead to all sorts of ailments, particularly sluggishness. Since spring break often involves enjoying the warm weather, it’s important that you are energized and staying hydrated is the place to start. An easy way to make sure you’re getting fluids throughout the day is by keeping a water bottle on you (my favorites are the Eddy bottles from CamelBak)– just make sure it stays refilled!
2. Hit the gym and try a group fitness class
The group fitness classes at UMass are awesome. If you are looking for a fun and rewarding workout, I definitely recommend trying Zumba. It’s kind of like playing Just Dance for an hour, but with higher intensity and better music. Trust me, you’ll sweat. If you’re not into group fitness, the elliptical or treadmill are very effective ways to get your heart rate up, too.
3. Catch plenty of Z’s
I know, I know– it’s hard. But according to the Sleep Foundation, if you’re between the ages of 18 and 25, you should be getting at least seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Adequate sleep will keep your immune system strong and energy levels up. What’s not to love?
4. Eat more whole foods
In the dining halls, it can be tempting to reach for the pizza or pasta. But if you opt for wholesome foods like leafy greens, fresh fruit, unprocessed lean meat, and whole grains, your body will be fueled and nourished, plus you’ll stay fuller longer.
5. Keep yourself happy
We are told so often that the key to healthy and happy lives is taking care of ourselves, and although you might be tired of hearing it, there’s some truth to it. Sometimes the first step to self-care can be as easy as drinking tea and watching an episode of your favorite show on Netflix (Jessica Jones, anyone?). When you take the time to care for yourself, you release stress. Spring break should be a time to celebrate some time away from the hustle and bustle that college life presents, so take advantage of it!
So Collegiettes, here’s to you and your upcoming free time. Have fun, relax, and remember to stay healthy!
