one of the most difficult things in college is staying healthy. for a lot of college students, this is the first time they're really in charge of themselves. it becomes difficult to manage time to exercise, eat right, and sleep enough. nevertheless, it's extremely important to stay healthy, so it's definitely worth the extra effort. i promise you'll thank yourself in the future! to help you guys out, i've compiled some health tips that i use on a day to day basis.
- eat enough fruit, vegetables, and dairy. going to the cafeteria, it's basically just as easy to get a pizza as it is a salad, and you sometimes you find yourself opting for the pizza more and more often. however, if you really want that pizza, try at least getting a salad on the side or some fruit. this way you can enjoy your guilty pleasures, with a good serving of fruits or vegetables! also, don't forget the dairy! it's pretty difficult to get a good amount of calcium in your diet from cafeteria food, but there is always dairy. getting milk in the morning is my go to way.
- drink juice. if you still find it difficult to get enough fruits and vegetables in your diet, try drinking a juice a day. good juices pack in A LOT of nutrients into each bottle. i've been loving the ones pictured above from trader joes; they're reasonably priced and taste great.
- add chia seeds to your water. chia seeds are a true superfood, they hold so much nutrients that adding them to your diet should be a no brainer. i like adding them to my water; this way i make sure to drink water, and i get extra nutrients!
- take your vitamins! when all else fails and you can't get the nutrients you need through your diet, vitamins are there for you. find a multivitamin you like and take it every day.
- work out. yes, we all have busy schedules, but working out is so important everyone should make time for it. actually, i owe me working out to my roommate who forced me to do this crazy workout once. after doing it the first time, i realized how important it is to stay in shape. look at it as something fun, and you'll be more likely to do it! exercise is also a great way to relieve stress.
- use essential oils. different essential oils can be used for different things, so you can research what kind would help you the most. i use lavender oil to help me relax before bed, and basil oil helps relieve stress.
- keep sanitizer with you. one of the easiest ways to avoid getting sick is to keep your hands clean. think about it, your hands touch so much stuff; and then they touch your face, your food, etc. keeping your hands clean is a great way to make sure you don't get yourself sick.
- smile at yourself in the mirror. last but not least, make sure you're happy! start each day off on the right foot with positive thoughts. as you're getting ready to leave, look in the mirror, smile, and tell yourself you're going to have a great day; and chances are you will!