Ten Wellness Tips For Students

With the semester starting back up again (or starting up for the first time), a lot of students may feel stressed and worn-out. Self-care isn't something that's taught in STAT 100, but is essential to your time at college. Here are some tips on how to stay well throughout the semester! If these aren’t enough, check out the Counseling Center’s workshop “Got Health? Creating A Wellness Plan That Works For You,” on Tuesday, September 27 at 7pm in the Union room 406. See you there!

1. Take time to meditate

Only a few minutes of meditation each day can leave you grounded, energized, and ready to take on the week. Meditation is a great, free way to reduce stress!

2. Hit up the gym

Exercise is a great way to stay healthy and stay mentally well. As a bonus, grab a friend and do a workout together!

3. Eat a healthy diet

Make sure to eat a diet full of fruits and veggies, and try to limit your consumption of sugar and alcohol. If you live in the res halls, be sure to ask the nutritionist on staff for some tips on what you should be eating!

4. Make time for YOU

With classes, tests, papers, and everything else that comes with being in college, many students don’t take time for themselves. Taking some time each day to unwind, separate yourself from the stress of school, and recharge is an often-neglected activity, but one that will help you succeed in the long run. You can read a book, watch a movie, knit, or whatever else puts you in a good mood and lets you have some quality “you” time.

5. Get enough sleep

Most students do not get the recommended 8 hours of sleep per night, and many students report being tired or falling asleep in class. Budgeting your schoolwork/social time in advance can give you the ability to schedule a full nights rest each night, leaving you ready to handle each day.

6. Express your spirituality

Expressing your spirituality is a positive way to understand your place in the world, connect with others, and be happier with yourself. Whether that is joining a religious group in the community, attending worship services, meditating, or simply making meaning and purpose in your life, expressing your spirituality is an important part of life as a college student.

7. Explore what campus has to offer

Did you know UIUC has an arboretum, an art museum, and a Japan House? Spend an afternoon looking at art, walking around in nature, or treating yourself to a traditional tea ceremony right here on campus! Check out this (http://disability.illinois.edu/campus-life/list-things-do-around-campus) for a full list of things to do on campus.

8. Listen to music

Studies have found that listening to music can reduce stress, elevate mood, and improve cognitive performance (http://greatist.com/happiness/unexpected-health-benefits-music). What music do you like to listen to?

9. Journal

Journaling is a great way to express your feelings, destress after a difficult day, and make sense of the things that go on in your life. Try writing down things you are grateful for each day – it may make you happier.

10. Talk to a friend

It’s hard to make time for friends with busy schedules, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Grabbing lunch in between classes, coffee on the weekends, study sessions at night, or even a few minutes on the quad, making time to connect with your friends and tell them what’s going on in your life is a rewarding endeavor that will make you happier and will help you creating lasting friendships.

Like these tips, and want some more? Be sure to check out the Counseling Center's workshop "Got Health?" on Tuesday, September 27th at 7pm in the Union room 406.