In college, we are constantly juggling classes, assignments, extracurricular activities, and a social life. With so much on our plate, it’s no wonder that burnout and exhaustion are common experiences among us students. This is where self-care comes in.
Self-care is the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s well-being and happiness, particularly during periods of stress. It may seem counterintuitive to take time for yourself when you have so much to do, but the science behind self-care shows that it is essential for maintaining your physical, emotional, and mental health.
When you are stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that can have negative effects on your body, such as weight gain, sleep disturbances, and a weakened immune system. Self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness meditation, or simply taking a break to relax, can help reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
Another benefit of self-care is that it can help improve your focus and productivity. When you are constantly going, going, going, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and unfocused. Taking a break to recharge allows you to come back to your tasks with renewed energy and a clear mind.
One common misconception about self-care is that it is selfish. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Self-care is not about putting yourself above others; it’s about taking care of yourself so that you can be at your best for the people and things that matter to you.
Think of it this way: you can’t pour from an empty cup. By taking care of yourself, you are better able to take care of others and fulfill your responsibilities. Think of self-care as your human charger.
Now that you understand the importance of self-care and how it can help you while you’re in college, here are five practical self-care tips that every college student should know:
1. Schedule self-care time:
Just like you schedule time for classes and assignments, it’s important to schedule time for self-care. Whether it’s a yoga class, a therapy appointment, or a quiet afternoon reading, make sure to carve out time in your schedule for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. I have the perfect self-care planner that can help streamline your planning and is really easy to use. You can check it out here!
2. Get enough sleep:
Sleep is crucial for your physical and mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a consistent sleep schedule. Avoid screens and caffeine before bedtime to help improve the quality of your sleep.
3. Move your body:
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Find a physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s running, swimming, or dancing, and make it a regular part of your routine.
4. Connect with others:
Humans are social creatures, and connecting with others is essential for our well-being. Make time for friends and family, and don’t be afraid to reach out for support when you need it.
5. Practice mindfulness:
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and non-judgmentally observing your thoughts and feelings. This can be done through activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling.
Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to find self-care activities that work for you and make them a regular part of your routine.
If you’re feeling burnt out or exhausted, know that you are not alone. Reach out for support and make self-care a priority. And if you have any self-care topics you’d like me to talk more about, don’t hesitate to reach out to me or leave a comment. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s your recharge superpower.
Check out my post on 20 Self-Care Activities That You Can Do Even When You’re Busy
By scheduling self-care time, getting enough sleep, moving your body, connecting with others, and practicing mindfulness, you can prioritize your well-being and be at your best for the people and things that matter to you.
