Recent events are probably very overwhelming to some people. We are all adjusting to our “new” normal, and we may be living life differently for the next several weeks. In order to effectively cope with these lifestyle changes, it is important that we exercise good habits that positively contribute to our physical and mental health. Here are some Self-Care Strategies for students during these times.
As we all learn how to modify our routines in this new normal, taking care of yourself is very important. If you have used other self-care strategies not listed here to help cope in the past, then by all means, use them! Keeping your physical, mental. and emotional health and well-being at the forefront is so important, especially now.
Keep Your Daily Routine Consistent
Following a daily routine is more important than ever, as it adds normalcy, structure, and consistency to our day. As we learn to deal with many of the uncertain things happening in our world, your daily routine can help keep you grounded. Make sure you wake up at the same time each day, as you usually would, shower, dress, and groom yourself as if you would if you were going to school or work, etc. Keeping your routine as consistently as possible will give you a sense of control, which in turn can help you feel more positive and less stressed.Eat Healthy
While so many of our daily activities, such as work and school, are moving online, life at home all day is the new normal. Resist the temptation to overeat and raid your refrigerator, just because it is there. Sticking to healthy eating habits are critical to your well-being. If you are eating properly, you will likely feel the effects, both physically and mentally. Similar to keeping your routine, stick to your regular meal schedule that includes nutritious foods. You will feel better physically, and it is better for your concentration so you can focus on your studies.Get Moving-Exercise!
Now that you are taking classes from home, you actually can use your study break time to exercise. When the weather is nice, take a walk outside (making sure you are practicing social distancing while doing so). YouTube has many great videos for fitness and Yoga classes, plus there are many fitness apps available for use. There could be things you already have around your home to help you with an exercise routine. Lounging around all day isn’t good for the body or mind. Finding ways to stay active will help you feel better mentally and physically.Make Sure You Get Your Zzzz’s
Getting enough sleep does not mean sleeping in until noon every day (see the section above regarding keeping your daily routine consistent). A full night’s sleep is typically 7 to 9 hours for an adult. Just as you should wake up at the same time every day, it’s important to keep your bedtime routine the same as well. Not having enough sleep can weaken your immune system and make you feel groggy, which will affect your ability to concentrate on your online classwork. The proper amount of sleep is essential for your physical and mental health.Take Time for Yourself
An important part of self-care is nurturing your well-being. Nurturing your well-being includes maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health. It is so important to find ways to ‘disconnect’ from the world around you. Doing deep breathing exercises or meditating are great ways to take time for yourself. It could be as simple as going into a room and reading a good book. Take time to recharge your batteries every day. Feeling refreshed and relaxed is key during these challenging times.Reach Out to Family and Friends
It is important to stay connected to a support system during stressful times. Even though we are practicing social distancing right now, we can still be connected. Call your family and friends, send texts, and emails and set up FaceTime chats. Nurture the relationships that mean the most to you. Keeping in touch with family and friends is a joint effort. Having a good conversation or exchanging electronic communications will be good for you and those you stay in touch with. It’s important not to isolate ourselves during challenging times and to gain strength from relationships that are meaningful.Start Journaling
Journaling can be therapeutic in many ways. When we are faced with challenges and instability, it’s very easy to feel lonely, anxious, stressed or even depressed. Having a gratitude journal is a great way to remind yourself of all the positive aspects of your life and also to alleviate anxiety and stress. You could also write down three things that you accomplished each day that made you feel proud or happy. Journaling our daily accomplishments can instill a sense of pride, keeping those negative feelings away. A journal is also a great way to express your thoughts about the situation at hand. Regardless of what you decide to write, journaling can help you organize your thoughts and channel them in a productive and healthy way.As we all learn how to modify our routines in this new normal, taking care of yourself is very important. If you have used other self-care strategies not listed here to help cope in the past, then by all means, use them! Keeping your physical, mental. and emotional health and well-being at the forefront is so important, especially now.
