Self-Care in University

Sunshine coming through a field of grassWritten by: Arina Bagga

Photo by: Jake Givens on Unsplash  

So many people think that self-care is going to the spa, getting your hair done, taking a bubble bath with a face mask, doing your nails, eating some delicious chocolate and curling up to a good movie. That’s the 'self-care aesthetic' we see so much of on social media. However, there are dozens of other amazing activities that constitute self-care when you don’t have the time or don’t feel like dedicating a few hours to making yourself feel good.

Enjoy the Sun

Getting sunlight, even for 10-15 minutes a day provides so many benefits. The sun triggers special areas in your retina which release serotonin and boosts your mood. Sunlight can reduce stress levels to make you feel happier and focused.

Get Enough Sleep

I know this is something you hear often, but it’s probably the best thing you can do for yourself. Sleeping an adequate amount decreases your chance of long-term health problems into your adulthood. Aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep a night keeps you more alert so you can finish everything on your to-do list. Also, it releases stress, so you can focus better on your school work and other commitments.

Tidy Your Study Space

Wherever you study, make sure the place is relatively tidy. I find that when you have a clean work area, you get less distracted and you don’t waste too much time looking for something you need. This can lead you to be more efficient in finishing tasks (therefore giving you a lot more time to binge-watch your favourite Netflix shows).

Cuddle Some Furry Friends

I know not everyone has a pet, but if you do, give them a little extra love. For example, you can walk your dog an extra 10 minutes, or pet your cat a little longer when they’re falling asleep. If you don’t have a pet you can physically spend time with, that’s okay. Looking at pictures and videos of cute animals can boost your mood, and reduce stress and anxiety. If you wake up feeling anxious and worried, I’m sure a 2-minute video should make you cheer you up at least a little.

Get Some Exercise

Physical activity is important, and you really don’t need to do an intense two-hour workout to feel accomplished. Do some stretching, yoga, go on a walk, or do a few sets of your favourite moves to get moving. Some recommendations I have, are working out with your friends online or giving them a call while you go on a walk. It’s a great way to get moving and stay connected!

Find a Hobby That Makes You Happy

With most of our time spent indoors, a great idea is finding something you love and using it as an outlet for when you want to release any emotions. Whether it’s painting, writing, running, making jewellery, playing video games, do it if it makes you feel good or if you want to learn something new.

Don't Waste Your Energy On Everyone and Everything 

Sometimes, you need to take a step back and realize that not everyone and everything in your life deserves a reaction. You need to remember that your time is important and valuable. Don’t dwell on any minor problems or inconveniences if you know they’re not going to matter in a few years, or even days.

Catch Up With Loved Ones

Whether it’s friends or family you haven’t been able to catch up and spend time with, give yourself a few hours one day where you can do just that. It’s so important to make time for those close to you because sometimes you can get so caught up in other work that you don’t realize how you’re isolating yourself from those who care about you.

Implement a few of these tips into your routine to boost your mood and increase productivity. Of course, you should pamper yourself from time to time, but don’t forget that some of the most important things you can do for yourself are small, daily rituals that will eventually transform your life!


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