Your first year, your health: A wellness guide
October 11, 2024
Starting university can be daunting! This is a new territory, and a common concern is balancing everything! While academics are very important, a common saying is “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself”, this quote can be a crucial reminder to us all not to forget to care for ourselves while we juggle everything else. The first year of university is when a lot of people pick up new habits while adjusting to the change, so here are some tips and reminders to take care of yourself while starting the new year, creating a healthy school, and life balance!
The Importance of Sleep
There is a reason why getting enough sleep is always stressed, it is crucial for your health as well as your academic performance. Sleeping enough each night can enhance your focus, and memory and provide you with the energy needed to fulfill tasks. It is best to aim between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night, this ensures that your body and mind are getting the rest they need. A great way to help you receive the sleep you need is to create a night-time routine, this can signal your body that it is almost time to sleep. This routine may include reading a book, taking a warm shower or bath, journaling, or another form of relaxation. Try to avoid screens or caffeine before bed as that can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.
Have a Healthy Balance
It is easy to engulf yourself with school when it starts to get demanding and stressful, but it is important to create a healthy balance between self and work. Setting boundaries for yourself regarding study times and scheduling breaks between study sessions can help manage your stress and designate other times for yourself. Engage in activities and hobbies that bring you joy throughout the year to maintain a sense of self. Remember, creating a healthy balance between work and relaxation keeps you productive and ensures your happiness and overall well-being.
Stay Active
Physical activity is essential for maintaining mental and physical health. Staying active can be a form of destressing or simply something to do to help boost your mood and energy levels. Luckily Ontario Tech has amazing facilities to help stay active. At the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, the gymnasium is usually bustling with many students playing a variety of sports. If sports aren’t your thing, upstairs is a gym facility with many different gym equipment fit for any workout routine. Using your Ucard, these facilities are open for your use. Even small activities such as stretching between studying can make all the difference. Keeping your body active can help keep your brain active!
The Importance of Community
Having a sense of community in university is important and not something to be overlooked. Whether this is through finding new friends around campus, joining clubs to meet people or staying in touch with old friends, it is invaluable to build meaningful relationships with those at school. Building these connections can help foster a more positive outlook on school, improve your university experience, provide emotional support, and help during those challenging times. You don’t have to go through your first year alone, share the experience with the loved ones around you!
Nourish Your Body
Nutrition is the fuel your mind and body need to perform at their best, so don’t neglect your needs! Plan your meals by packing snacks and lunch to bring with you as you go through your day. Eating regularly can boost your mood and energy, helping you stay on top of your tasks. No time to pack something? Luckily there are plenty of food stops around campus for a quick bite. You can visit Tim Horton’s in the Shawenjigewining Hall, Hunter’s Kitchen in the Business and Information Technology Building, and many more on or near campus. If you are looking to eat on a budget while avoiding frequent takeout, consider buying groceries in bulk and preparing nutritious meals at home to bring with you. Maintaining your health during school is crucial, so it is better to have small snacks throughout the day than to skip meals entirely.
Self Check-Ins
When you’re always on the go, it’s easy to forget to check in with yourself. Taking time each week to assess how you’re doing mentally, physically, and academically can be very beneficial. These check-ins offer clarity and help you understand what you’re feeling. They can also highlight areas where you might need to make adjustments in your daily routine to improve your well-being.
