Starting college is a very exciting feat for new students as it brings a whole new world of undiscovered freedom. But even though the excitement might last throughout college life, freshmen are bound to learn very soon that new horizons and freedom also involve new problems and challenges. With no guardian present, students are left to make their own decisions when it comes to their daily habits, activities, as well as the food they eat; all while trying to master efficient budgeting for the first time. Staying healthy both physically and emotionally is crucial for a fulfilling student life. That said, the following tips can help you stay on top of things in this new environment.
1. Keep Track of Your Nutrition
As a freshman with many responsibilities, it can get a bit difficult to pay attention to the food and drinks you consume on a daily basis. Lattes, sodas, alcohol, snacks, and junk food can all lead to weight gain and feelings of fatigue.
The best thing you can do is to keep track of what you consume. A phone app can help you with that. Stick to plain coffee and water (and diet soda) when it comes to your beverages. Otherwise, you’d be drinking your calories.
Try to have three meals a day to keep your metabolism going. Cut back on the carbs and do your best to keep at least half of your plate filled with veggies and fruit. What’s more, vegetables and fruit are a much more acceptable snacking option during the late study sessions compared to fries for example. Cook for yourself as often as possible. When you go to the cafeteria, choose healthier options and reasonable portions.
2. Move Your Body Regularly
Sitting is the new smoking. Even though you have to sit for longer periods of time as you study, it’s crucial that you get some physical activity in between these sessions. Not only will exercise keep you fit, but it will also get rid of accumulated toxins and provide you with a much-needed burst of energy for a new day.
Jogging is the simplest solution, but if you don’t like it, you can always do workouts in your own dorm just for half an hour every day by following fitness videos on YouTube. There’s no need to spend money on gym memberships.
3. Make Sure to Get Enough Sleep
As a student, you’re bound to experience sleepless nights on occasion, be it at a party or pulling an all-nighter before the final. However, even if you can function on 3 hours of sleep, your body will take a huge toll.
It’s when you sleep that both your body and mind rejuvenate and recover. And if you fail to get enough sleep as a habit, the lack of it will soon catch up with you, making you feel tired all the time, causing mental fogginess and difficulty to concentrate, and even weakening your immune system. That said, make it a point to sleep for at least 6-8 hours when there’s no final or paper deadline lurking about.
4. Consider Natural Supplements
You don’t have to do everything on your own. Even when you do your best to establish healthy habits, there will be days when you won’t be able to sleep or eat well. This is where vitamins and supplements can help you. As a young student, you’d benefit the most from natural products such as Aloe Vera that have minimal to no side-effects.
Taking an Aloe Vera supplement on a regular basis is a great way to strengthen your immune system from the inside. What’s more, this plant is known for its gut-friendly benefits, which can be paramount for the health of a student’s digestive system. It’s also a great skin booster and rejuvenator that can come in handy when you constantly lack the time to commit to a proper skincare routine.
5. Socialise with Your New friends
Making the time to study and take care of yourself is a must when in college, but you also have to make time for some fun. Remember, good health and wellness are not just about the physical aspect but your emotions, too. In that sense, don’t hesitate to go out and party (responsibly) when your schedule allows it. Even if it’s just a walk around the campus with your friend/roommate, the chit-chat will relax and help you unwind.
Just because you’re now a student doesn’t mean you have to take all the burden on your shoulders. Not even adults do that. Having someone to talk to and rely on is very important, so feel free to get in touch with your family as often as possible and open up to them about everything and anything that’s going on in your life.
Taylor Parker is an American based writer and blogger. She is very passionate about family, fashion, health and lifestyle. Taylor writes mostly lifestyle articles, but also you’ll find her in home improvement and other niches.