By Alexandra Nedelcu
Like most students at PSU, I know how rigorous the academic term can be. With 10 weeks of non-stop work, class, and other demands, it is difficult to keep a happy and healthy attitude. While it is difficult, it is not impossible to keep your health, both mental and physical, in tip-top shape. Following these four easy tips will have you remembering to appreciate your mind and body:
- Drink water!
This tip should go unmentioned, but a lot of times, lack of water can be the leading cause for fatigue and lack of motivation. Mayo Clinic suggests that a woman should drink close to nine cups of water a day, while men should commit to roughly 13 cups per day. However, and you should follow your body’s messages. I like to make “cleansing” water, using cucumber slices, lemon slices, and orange slices. Having a fun routine could jazz up your odorless, tasteless, colorless beverage.
- Give yourself breaks.
I cannot stress this one enough. I am a go-getter from the moment I wake up, to the moment I rest my head. I run on roughly two cups of black coffee a day. And while my routine guarantees completion of assignments in school and work, I do not always feel 100%. Giving yourself 15-20 minute breaks every hour makes your brain happy.
- If you’re sleepy and you know it, take a walk!
Portland is such a walk-friendly city, and I think a lot of us forget this fact when we are stuck in a dim classroom learning about Shakespeare’s motives or how bacteria are formed. Sitting can make you sleepy. If it is not possible (or appropriate) to get up and walk during your class, you may stand up and sit down for a refreshing boost.
- E-A-T!
I know, I know. We are COLLEGE STUDENTS. Often times, we treat food like an option, when it is actually a necessity. When your body is hungry, it will try to feed itself with sleep (hence you find yourself being sleepy in a morning class if you have not eaten breakfast). Packing small snacks, such as baby carrots, hummus and pita, or even potato chips can give your body the temporary energy it needs. However, keeping your meals consistent throughout the day is the key to your physical health.
It is true that no one is perfect when it comes to healthy habits. However, if we do everything we can to keep our brains and bodies happy, we will be thankful in the long run. Happy Winter Term.