We spend more than 10 years of our lives in school, so taking care of ourselves is essential for success. Self-care can be a huge help during stressful times. And in your adult life, it will be even more important, as you’ll need to be on top of things.
Here are 10 simple tips to keep your mind and body healthy while you study:
1. Get enough sleep – Sleep deprivation not only affects your concentration, but it also weakens your immune system. Make sure you get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. According to research, taking power naps (at most 30 minutes) during the day can also help keep you alert and productive.
2. Drink plenty of water – Staying hydrated is key in keeping your brain sharp and can help reduce fatigue during long study sessions. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and energized.
3. Exercise – Exercise releases endorphins, which can help reduce stress and give you more energy. Make time to walk, jog, or dance for at least 30 minutes a day – even if it’s just in your room.
4. Take breaks – Breaks allow your brain to rest and recharge during long study sessions, so make sure you take them! Go for a walk, grab a snack, or catch up with friends – just remember not to stay off-task for too long.
5. Eat nutritious meals – Eating well will not only give you more energy while studying but also provide essential nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and strong. Aim for balanced meals with plenty of fruits and vegetables! Remember your Grow, Glow, and Go foods!
6. Spend time with friends – Make sure to take a break from studying and connect with your friends. Having positive social connections can help you stay motivated and reduce stress levels.
7. Unplug from technology – Too much screen time can lead to mental fatigue and decreased concentration. Set aside time for yourself, away from devices and social media, to relax and recharge.
8. Find an outlet for stress – Whether it’s journaling, drawing, or listening to music, find a way to release your stress in a healthy way. Interestingly, research shows that talking to your pet or plants can reduce stress levels as well!
9. Take time for yourself – Make sure to set aside some “me-time” each day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. Do something that brings you joy and relaxes your mind and body. Even Google employees have a “20%” rule – they are encouraged to use 20% of their work time for creative projects (Clark, 2019)!
10. Practice mindfulness – Mindfulness can help you stay focused and increase your self-awareness. Take a few moments each day to sit in silence and focus on your breath. There’s a reason why yoga is a popular stress-relieving activity!
Bonus: Lifelong learning is also important for growth and success. Take on new challenges, read books, or learn something new to help you grow academically and personally.
Taking care of your mind and body is essential for succeeding in school. Use these tips to stay healthy while studying and achieve the best results! Good luck! 🤞
References:
Clark, D. (2021). Google’s ’20% rule’ shows exactly how much time you should spend learning new skills—and why it works. CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2021/12/16/google-20-percent-rule-shows-exactly-how-much-time-you-should-spend-learning-new-skills.html
