How to Stay Healthy and Active in College
Stay Healthy and Active in College
The first year of college is a huge adjustment from the structure and discipline of high school. Student Life must learn to deal with daily choices, major responsibilities and the reality that little things long taken for granted – such as brushing teeth, washing hands and eating right – can make or break them.
It may seem easy to eat all-you-can-eat at the dining hall buffet and stay up all night partying or studying for exams, but that kind of lifestyle will wear your body down and affect your health. Getting plenty of sleep, staying hydrated and exercising regularly can improve academic performance as well as your mood and immune system.
Developing healthy habits early on can help you maintain a balanced lifestyle throughout your college years. The first step is to set realistic goals. Then, develop a plan to achieve those goals. Creating a schedule is important, especially because in college classes are at different times and extracurricular activities often take up the entire day.
How to Stay Healthy and Active in College
Never skip breakfast and eat three meals a day. Eat healthy snacks, such as granola bars, yogurt and fruit, to curb cravings and avoid over-eating later in the day. Make sure you have a water bottle or reusable glass to take with you on all your journeys so you are not dehydrated. Drinking plenty of water also helps boost concentration and can help you lose weight.
Find a type of exercise that you enjoy so that you will stick with it. Whether you want to join the campus gym, swim team or just go for a jog around campus, there are many ways to get some exercise. Most colleges have tracks, swimming pools and tennis courts, and if you live on campus these are usually within walking distance. It is also a good idea to have a basic medical kit in your dorm room, with items such as non-perishable food and water (to last between trips to the dining hall), a flashlight and batteries, an emergency blanket and some basic first aid supplies.
Connect with people to support your social well-being. Having friends can be a great stress reliever, as they provide comic relief, support and encouragement. Friends can also be an invaluable study buddy, as studies have shown that they can improve student grades and test scores.
Get a flu shot and regular checkups. This is one of the best and cheapest things that you can do to stay healthy. The flu can have a devastating impact on your health, so it is important to be proactive and preventative.Beyond the confines of classrooms, student life thrives in a vibrant ecosystem of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations.
Whether it’s joining a sports team, participating in debate competitions, or volunteering for community service projects, students discover their passions and interests outside the academic realm. These extracurricular endeavors foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, allowing students to cultivate a well-rounded identity beyond their academic achievements. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling with an emotional or mental issue, seek counseling and don’t hesitate to use the resources on campus that can offer help and support.