College is a defining moment in our lives for many reasons. But it can also be very challenging, physically and mentally. There is a busy routine of classes and exams to be taken and an active social life with more independence, less sleep, and a not-so-healthy diet. That’s why many college students neglect a healthy lifestyle. To maintain good dental hygiene, you can get a micro abrasion at a Dentist in Oxnard.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), 42.5 percent of adults aged 20 and over are obese. This trend will only continue to grow without action. Even though college is a busy time, there are ways to maintain a healthier routine. Follow these guidelines to keep in shape and make the most of your student life.
1. Take a Fitness Class
A healthy fitness routine should have at least some cardiovascular exercise and regular stretching. The good news is that college campuses offer many resources for their students. So before spending money on a gym, check what your school has to offer.
Many colleges hold walking, running, or weight lifting classes at their fitness and recreation centers. Others perform free fitness services to keep you healthy, including blood pressure screening. Some colleges even run yoga, dance, and pilates programs, with the bonus of getting college credit in the process.
2. Stay Aware in the Dining Hall
A lot has changed in terms of nutrition at U.S. colleges in recent years. Even so, your newfound independence extends to the daily menu. As many colleges have fast-food chains available throughout the campus, it may encourage a less healthy diet of pizza and hamburgers.
Maintaining good health necessarily involves adopting healthy eating habits. Instead of fast food, go to a buffet-style dining hall whenever possible and take advantage of its variety. Although the salad buffet looks less appetizing than a slice of pizza, it offers more options to create varied, colorful, and healthier menus. Try to incorporate more integral foods into your diet to replace processed foods. Also, don’t skip meals—you will feel hungry later and might eat more.
3. Keep Essentials in Your Dorm
Get rid of that stock of snacks and soft drinks in your dorm or college apartment. It’s very easy to fall into temptation or overeat. Replace them with nutritious, protein-rich snacks like fruits, nuts, and multi-grain crackers. They are healthier and more energetic options to help you face a long day of classes. Avoid or reduce the consumption of sugary beverages.
It’s also very important to keep the morning routine complete with breakfast and vitamins. Understand how your body works to understand what it needs. If you feel that your diet is not providing the nutrition your body needs, stock up on vitamin A gummies, multivitamins, or protein supplements.
4. Walk When Possible
Walking is free, so adopting a daily walking routine instead of using the car or public transportation can help you get fit easily. Walk to class or meetings whenever possible. Use apps to track your steps each day and know how you’re going. But remember to stay hydrated, especially during long walks.
Walking instead of driving or taking the bus is a simple habit that can save a lot of money at the end of the month. It’s also eco-friendly. You can adopt daily practices like walking up and down campus stairs instead of using elevators.
5. Manage Stress
For many students, college is the first time they have any independence. With that comes an increase in responsibilities and a new routine full of changes and unexpected challenges. If you are feeling anxious or agitated, take some time to consider the best way to deal with your problems.
Stress can negatively interfere with your studies and school performance, in addition to leading to illnesses such as heart disease, hypertension, and depression. There are several ways you can maintain good mental health practices:
- Manage your time and don’t leave important work to the last minute.
- Create a routine with proper time for studying, eating, exercising, having fun, etc.
- If you’re feeling extremely tired and anxious, take some time for yourself to go to the movies or just hang out with friends.
- If you get overworked, ask your classmates for help and explain the situation to the teachers.
- A fun hobby can help take your mind off your worries.
The most important thing is to always keep an eye on your mental health. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you feel overwhelmed or exhausted. It’s not always possible to deal with some problems alone. Keep in contact with friends and family and ask for advice whenever necessary.
A Lesson for a Lifetime
Going to college represents the first significant change in the routine of many young people. It involves a lot of changes and decisions that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Remember that the decisions you make and the habits you adopt now will likely accompany you into your future.
That’s why it is essential to prioritize physical and mental health even in the face of intense academic life. In addition to the classes you take in college, you need to learn how to deal with your new routine to avoid stress, a sedentary lifestyle, and factors such as sleep deprivation or a poor diet. The lessons you learn by maintaining healthier practices will be very useful for the rest of your life, as you will take them into your family life and to your first job.
