Look, I totally get it. Worrying about trying to be healthy in college can feel pretty inconvenient. You say to yourself, as you down a venti caramel frappucino (extra whip) for the third time this week, “It’s only four years; I’ll be healthy once I graduate.” But the reality is, even though it can seem like a challenge, being healthy can actually make your life a lot easier in college. Having energy, not getting sick, and looking and feeling your best are all benefits of prioritizing your health. Here are some simple ways to stay healthy on campus.
Nutrition
- Don’t skip meals—this just leads to over-relying on caffeine and binge-eating later
- Be conscientious of “mindless eating”—especially stress-snacking while studying
- Make healthy eating convenient by stocking your room or dorm with healthy snacks
- Take a multi-vitamin, but treat it as your back-up plan, not as an excuse to not eat nutritious food
Exercise
- Walk or bike to class instead of taking the bus—it’ll never be this easy again to get your 10,000 steps a day
- Take advantage of the free or inexpensive group exercise classes most colleges offer at their Rec Center
- Search YouTube for short workout videos to do during study breaks
- Play a sport—join an intramural team or club team to add some competition and accountability to keep you motivated
Sleep
- Develop a sleep routine—try to get up and go to bed at the same time everyday
- Avoid late nights (or at least ones spent binge-watching Netflix by yourself—save sleep deprivation for necessary all-nighters)
- Don’t do work in bed—keep your sleep and study spaces separate
- Stop eating and drinking caffeine a few hours before bedtime
Mental Health
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help—most college campuses have lots of free resources for students who are struggling
- Get involved on campus—meeting new friends and trying new things will help you find your “home away from home”
- Keep your physical health in check—good physical health plays a big role in good mental health
- Know that things will change (and that’s OK!)—it’s all part of the college experience
By setting goals for yourself, finding support systems, and making your health a priority, you can keep this lifestyle up throughout the year. Making these small, simple changes can add up to a way bigger positive impact than any crazy New Year’s crash diet. Get ready to make this your healthiest semester yet!
