College is notorious for late-night, caffeine-fueled study sessions, hard partying, stress and weight gain. While some of that may be well earned, it doesn't have to define your college career. "Healthy" and "college" can be synonymous when you cultivate smart habits.
Allocating Time for Exercise
There are many ways to fit exercise into your day. Many schools have health centers with workout equipment, classes and pools, and use of these facilities is typically included in your tuition. Hit the gym after your last class of the day, or check out a spinning class before your morning lab. Pressed for time? Up the intensity for quick results in fewer minutes.
Make exercise social. Intramural sports are a great option for many, as are dates for tennis, or one-on-one basketball. Meet a friend for a walk instead of hitting the bar.
Work exercise into your daily routine, too. Take the long way to class. Get off the bus a stop early. Take the stairs. Every little bit counts!
Staying Healthy During Cold and Flu Season
Boost your immune system by getting plenty of sleep and loading up on fruits and vegetables. Wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer after each class. Avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes during the day to limit the number of germs that get into your body. Minimize your contact with sick people if at all possible. Wipe down surfaces and open windows to clear the air when someone has been sick.
Remaining Calm and Stress-Free During Exams
Minimize exam stress by planning for your exams from the first day of class. Complete your homework on time and review your notes several times a week. Make sure to stay healthy and get plenty of rest so that you are at your best when it's time for exams.
Begin your study sessions by taking a few minutes to meditate. Sit comfortably, close your eyes and focus on your breathing for three to five minutes. This act calms your nervous system and clears your mind so it is ready to study.
Don't forget to exercise. Scientific studies consistently demonstrate a link between exercise and healthy brain function. Physical activity means better concentration and a greater sense of well-being, a great way to counteract exam stress.
Dorm-Friendly Foods That Are Still Healthy
While you're not likely to keep a salad bar in your dorm room, you can still eat healthfully from your mini-fridge. Fruits like apples, oranges and bananas are easy to store and carry with you. Whole grain, low sugar cereals and granola bars are good options, as are whole grain breads or crackers with nut butter.
If you have access to a refrigerator, stock up on low-sugar yogurt, baby carrots, celery sticks and low-fat milk. Those with a microwave should consider low-fat vegetable and bean soups, instant oatmeal and low-sugar hot cocoa for comfort any time of day.
Healthy habits go far beyond a slim physique. By choosing to take care of yourself, you ensure that you are at your absolute best every single day. When opportunity comes, you'll be ready for it, both in college and for the rest of your life.
Author Bio: Cynthia Johnson is a lab assistant and online contributor for Healthtestingcenters, an online lab testing provider offering prescribed or self-ordered tests for cholesterol, thyroid function, liver function, etc. Check here for testing locations as well as home test kits.