It’s no secret that school is stressful. When you’re juggling countless responsibilities, it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life and forget to make yourself a priority. Keep reading for some simple ways to prioritize your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Incorporate Mindfulness and Self-Care into Your Daily Routine
Mindfulness can be used to reduce stress and calm your mind, but it’s also great for improving focus. An article by Purdue suggests practicing mindful breathing, and emphasizes the importance of getting outside to enjoy nature.
Always remember to take time to do something you enjoy, even if it’s only for a few minutes! Use a favorite activity to start your day off right, or to give you something to look forward to after completing a task.
Practice Gratitude
In stressful times, it’s hard to refocus and think of the good things around you. If writing is your thing, try a gratitude journal. If not, consider incorporating gratitude into mindfulness exercises as a way to appreciate the positive.
Get Enough Sleep
If you read our post on Tuesday, you know the importance of maintaining a regular sleep schedule. The CDC recommends that people over the age of 18 need at least seven hours of sleep a night. You will feel better and perform better when you’re well-rested.
Get Moving
If you live or take classes on campus, you might be getting some daily exercise walking to and from class. But in an increasingly virtual world, it can be hard to get the recommended 30 minutes of daily exercise. If you have a full day on Zoom, try to get out for a walk during lunch or after dinner. Remember to also take advantage of the resources available to you through Mason Recreation. Grab a friend and try out a new class or online workout together.
Get Help When You Need It
Most importantly, if you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone and remember to ask for help. We have a multitude of resources on campus that are designed to help you. Make an appointment with Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) or Student Health Services if you have concerns about your mental or physical health. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s blog, which will detail both of these offices, as well as other resources that are available to you as a Mason student.
Looking to learn more? This article from Chapman University offers suggestions for sustaining health and wellness while in college.
Join Us for the Midterm Morale Boost
Are you in need of a boost in the midst of your busy midterm season? Join us on Thursday, March 9 in the Thompson Hall Lobby on the Fairfax Campus for our Spring 2023 CEHD Midterm Morale Boost! From 10:00 am – 12:00 pm, enjoy free snacks and activities like succulent planting and aromatherapy!