How to Stay Healthy in College
Staying healthy in college can be very challenging with the demands of academics, social life, limited food options and an unstructured lifestyle. Figuring out a balanced lifestyle is key to your overall well being and can have a significant impact on your success and positive college experience.
Here are five easy ways to stay healthy (and happy) in college:
1. Stick with a balanced diet as much as possible
Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. While fast food or ramen might be tempting, they’re not ideal for maintaining your energy and focus.
If possible, prep meals ahead of time can help you stay on track and avoid unhealthy food options, especially during busy weeks.
Stay hydrated!! Aim to drink one full glass or water bottle every hour during the day and add electrolyte packet for extra hydration as well as flavor.
Processed foods and sugar are not your friend. It may taste good in the moment but will leave you feeling lethargic and low energy and you will be hungry quicker.
2. Find time every day to move your body
Many colleges offer free or low-cost access to gyms and fitness classes, so take advantage of those. You don’t need to spend hours at the gym; even short workouts, like a 20-minute walk, jog, or bodyweight exercises, can boost your mood and energy.
Hiking, biking, or just walking around campus can help you stay active while enjoying the fresh air. Track your steps and make it a goal to reach 10k steps a day!!
Ask a friend to go to the gym with you or take a walk to the park, finding someone to motivate one another can make working out so much more fun.
3. Remember to rest and reset!
Sleep is crucial for cognitive function, memory retention, and mood regulation. Its so important to consistently sleep 7-9 hours a night to stay healthy.
Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to help regulate your internal clock. Even if this means making sure your roommate wakes you up in the morning so that you don’t oversleep!
Find a routine that works for you, maybe read before you turn off your light or listen to music but limit screen time at least 30 minutes before bed (an hour before bed is even better).
4. Develop habits to manage stress
Try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga to help reduce stress and stay grounded during busy weeks. Listen to a meditation or a podcast online as you take a 20 minute walk.
It's important to take breaks, clear your mind so that you can reset and stay focused. Call an old friend or family member- they know you best!!
Using planners, to-do lists, or apps can help you stay organized and manage your time better.
5. Build Social Connections
Making time to develop friendships is key to being happy and social. Spending time with others can improve mental health and reduce feelings of loneliness. So don’t spend too much time in your room. Make coffee and tea dates and ask classmates to meet for meals.
Get out of your comfort zone and join a new club or try a new hobby. Getting involved in campus activities is a great way to meet new people and find new friends outside of the classroom.
If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a counselor, a mentor, a professor or a trusted friend. Many colleges offer free counseling services that can help with stress, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. You should never feel like you have no one to reach out to, school can be stressful but remember there are always ways to manage it.
By focusing on these aspects—nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, and social connection—you’ll be more likely to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle throughout your college years which will lead to a happier and more successful experience.
Interested in learning more? Our Boston Campus Concierge wellness team will be happy to support you through meal and exercise plans, fitness and meditation tips, and more. Get in contact with us today to learn about our unique concierge offerings and personal services!