How I Stay Healthy in College

Everyone hears horror stories about the Freshman Fifteen, I know I was terrified of it before I started school. As move-in-day approached I became determined to avoid those infamous 15 pounds and even work to be healthier than I had been at home. Throughout the past few months I've actually achieved those goals, but have also learned that gaining a few pounds is definitely not the end of the world, and not something to live in fear of. However, it is important to aspire to be the happiest and healthiest version of yourself, so I'm sharing some things I've learned on how to feel my best while in college!

Walk Everywhere. Walking may not seem like that big of a deal if you go to a small school, but at a bigger school like mine where one of my classes is a mile from my dorm, it can be a pain. It's so tempting to just hop on a bus, but walking is a super easy way to get your heart pumping and your body feeling good. So walk to your classes, to the grocery store, where ever, just get those legs moving!

Sleeeeeep. My roommate definitely hates me for this one, but try to get on a consistent sleeping schedule and strive for at least 7 hours of sleep a night. Sleep is critical to learning and memory, immune function, metabolism, and so much more! It can be hard to balance school, work, and a social life, so a lot of people cut out vital hours of sleep to fit everything in, but sleeping more almost always results in increased energy to be able to do everything that you want to do.

Make your own meals. This one can be difficult when you're living in a dorm with nothing but a microwave, but it's possible. Dining halls tend to be limited in plant based options, and those that they do have can be full of oil and other not so great stuff. After realizing that a lot of the food offered makes me feel bloated, I've started making simple meals in my room whenever I can like sweet potatoes, oatmeal, salads, and taco bowls. I know it can be impractical to eat in your room all the time, so when you do go to the dining halls, aim to make the bulk of your meal something yummy and healthy like a salad or whatever veggies are being served that day.

Find an Exercise you Love. Exercise makes you feel happier, increases energy levels, reduces the risk of disease, and even helps with relaxation. I admit I am one of those people who does not like exercising, especially the stereotypical idea of exercising in a gym around *other people*. However, I know the benefits and know I feel better when I do some form of movement and I know how important it is for a healthy life, so I've begun a little yoga practice that I can do in my room before I head to class. Find a type of exercise you love and have fun doing, whether it's spin, yoga, lifting, running, whatever, and try to make time for it a few times a week. It may feel like a hassle, but I promise it's worth it.

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