Getting dressed up for a loud, crowded social event. Coffee and a book with absolutely no one around. What do these things have in common? These activities are both forms of self-care.
Throughout my academic and teen years, I have learned that caring for my mental and physical health is necessary to living a happy and active lifestyle. College can be physically and emotionally draining. Without setting time aside to focus on yourself, it is hard to reach the goals that you have set. How can you ace that test if you are exhausted with a headache? How can you be a good friend if you are swamped with homework you’ve procrastinated on? How can you have self-confidence if you are feeling anxious and overwhelmed? Taking the time to focus on your well-being, whether big or small acts, can improve numerous areas of your life. I have noticed that when I make self-care a priority throughout my week, I am more focused and can direct my energy into the productive and positive aspects of my life.
Please remember that taking time for yourself is not selfish or unproductive, and self-care does not have to be seen as the typical “aesthetic lifestyle” that is pushed onto us by social media. In today’s hustle and bustle culture, we need to remind ourselves that taking care of our well-being and enjoying life are also top priorities.
What does self-care look like for me? When I am feeling overwhelmed, I go to the gym to get in a good workout and keep my dorm room clean to feel less anxious. I also like to reach for a good book, write a to-do list to stay organized, extend my skincare regime to relieve stress, and binge-watch my newest Netflix obsession: Gilmore Girls. Although these activities tend to be relaxing, self-care for me is also doing my makeup and hair to go explore the city with my friends or catching up with my family members.
I believe that self-care varies from person to person, so I surveyed some ways in which other students around campus like to relax and take care of themselves in the hope that you can find some inspiration for self-care to incorporate into your routine.
Athina, Sophomore
“I take a shower, do my nails, put on face masks, take naps, watch movies, and shop online.”
Adrianne, Freshman
“I incorporate a pre-set time with friends into my schedule so that my week is not just work, work, work.”
“Sleep and play sports.”
Lexi, Freshman
“I usually journal about my feelings…then eat something that makes me happy and watch Netflix”.
Liana, Freshman
“Hot girl walks while listening to music: Sza, Nicki Minaj, or Megan Thee Stallion.”
Shane, Sophomore
“Getting schoolwork finished is good for me.”
Kaylee, Freshman
“Showering and styling my hair.”
Kate, Sophomore
“I do a meditation regime- I like to push myself, but not overwhelm myself.”
Nina, Freshman
“I love my friends and spending time with them, but I need balance to also spend time with myself.”
Gabby, Sophomore
“I use the Headspace meditation app that reminds me when to meditate throughout the day.”
Brian, Freshman
“Sleep and hygiene.”
Aminah, Freshman
“I like to reset by doing face masks. Especially on Sundays”.
Karina, Freshman
“I like to take time to take a walk in nature.”
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