When you are in the thick of studying, doing homework, working, taking care of pets, juggling friends and family…it’s very easy to forget to take care of yourself.
When I was in college, I had a very regimented schedule that I put myself on to make sure I got everything done, and this even included taking time away from it all so I didn’t get (too) overwhelmed.
Your schedule can be PACKED, but that is when it is the most important for you to take time for yourself (even if it just 10 minutes a day) so you can recharge and be ready to face it all again the next day.
Here are some self-care tips that I still use to this day, and that changed my life while I was in college! I know that they will help you, too!
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1. Cook your own food + make a meal plan for the week!
This is something I learned very early on when I was on my own. My body can’t handle eating a lot of processed or fried foods, so when I was living in an apartment I made most every meal myself.
This seems like it can be a lot of work, but once you start noticing the differences in your body, you will see that the time you invest is worth the cost. Plus, it’s cheaper than eating out every meal. Definitely a win-win!
Once you start meal-planning + prepping, you will save time during the week by just compiling the fresh food together in a meal, and you will realize that you are saving money because there is less food you are wasting.
If you live on campus, and don’t have access to a full kitchen, try choosing healthier options at the dining halls – grilled instead of fried, limit your bread intake, and stay away from pre-packaged/processed food and snacks.
It’s better to know exactly what you are putting in your body rather than having to play a guessing game and dealing with the problems later. A healthy gut + body = a happier and healthier YOU! If that isn’t self-care, I don’t know what is.
Meal planning, but make it cute! Write down your meals on a cute chalkboard and post it in your kitchen to add a flare to your decor. This is a super easy way to stay on track and be accountable.
Meal Planning Chalkboards:
Chalkboard | Chalkboard Easel | Chalkboard Wall Sticker
2. Take time to exercise.
When your schedule is packed it is hard to imagine that you have a moment to workout.
As a student, you have so many valuable resource right at your fingertips so this is the perfect time for you to start a habit of working out 3-4 times a week, even if it is just for 30 minutes.
It goes right along with eating a healthy diet! When you feel great inside and out, your whole life benefits!
Plus…
3. Invest in your morning and night-time routine!
When I say invest, I don’t mean drop all the money you have on the most expensive products; I mean invest your time and intentionality into make this a structured part of your day. For example:
- In the morning, set an alarm so you have enough time to truly wake up.
- Don’t get on your phone/computer until you are out of the shower or until after breakfast! Social media is a time-sucker and you don’t want to waste your entire morning on a screen and then have to rush to prepare for your day.
- Drink water as you are getting ready, this will help wake your systems up and get everything moving! (Try adding some fresh fruit to your water; not only does it look pretty, you receive nutrients from the natural fruit juice!)
- Whether you shower in the morning or at night, take the time to thoroughly wash your hair and scalp. It sounds silly, but it can really change how your hair looks and feels. Also, make sure you are using good shampoo and conditioner- pay attention to what your hair needs and how it reacts to what you are using.
- Invest in good body wash. My mom used to always teach me to pay attention to what ingredients body wash/lotion has in it because your skin is the most important vessel, as it soaks everything that is put on it. Look for healthy, natural, and organic materials! There are some great companies out there that sell very affordable body washes.
- Take care of your skin, especially your face! Wash everyday, and wash your face every morning and night. Again, find something that works for you that is affordable, but is made with the best ingredients for your skin type.
- Do face + hair masks- not only are they relaxing, but they can revitalize your skin and hair. Try to do one at least once a week to see the best results!
- Have some TV time, but don’t go overboard! I know that it is easy to get sucked into a Netflix-binge, but set aside a certain time of day to enjoy your favorite shows and then turn it off once its over. For me, Tuesday was a special day because I would watch the newest episode of the bachelor and get my fav meal from chick! It was a weekly treat I always looked forward too and was the one night I never scheduled anything. It was a saving grace. Now, it is a tradition that my hubby and I carry on- its the perfect date-night in!
- Before you go to bed, spend time away from a screen. Read a book, do a bible study, clean up your space…this gives your brain and eyes a break and allows you to slow down before you rest. Trust me, you need it.
Here are some things to help your morning/night-time routine:
Fav Reusable Water Bottle | Scalp Scrubber | Fav Face Wash/Makeup Remover | Fav Tumbler
Fav Brands: Raw Sugar, Meyer’s Clean Day, Love Beauty and Planet, Native
4. Write down what you need to do the next day and for the week!
This is my best advice for you- GET ORGANIZED!
You will have a lot on your plate and it will be easy to forget everything you need to do. Find a journal or planner and keep a pen with you at all times so you can write things down as soon as they come up!
I attribute this tip to how I stayed organized my entire educational career. In 7th/8th grade, I had a piece of paper clipped to the front of my binder with my to-do list and all of the homework that was due the next day. In high school, I had a list for every class printed out that I could fill in. In college, I had my trusty planner color-coded and organized that held all of my syllabi and every class had its own folder.
Ya girl is as Type-A as they come, but its gets the job done! And that is something I will always pride myself on.
Do yourself a favor and figure out what way works for you to stay organized. It will be an elimination process, but take the time to figure it out and you will thank yourself later!
Fav Planner: Erin Condren | Fav Pens: Paper Mate Flair Tip Pens
No matter how busy your schedule is, all the things you are trying to juggle, every person you are trying to please…you HAVE to take care of yourself first!
Remember, the world will keep spinning and even though it may feel like it will end if you don’t get everything done…you won’t be able to do your best if you aren’t giving your body, mind, and soul the rest and care it needs.
Before you leave, make sure you check out my other college-related tips and tricks! Here’s some advice about having a social life, tips that will help you survive your classes, a college packing list, and 10 things you need to know for dorm-life! + Don’t forget to join the mailing list so you know when new posts are added to madiwoodhouse.com!
You are doing and will do great, friend. Remember that.
Love this! Thank you!
Thank you, sweet friend!