By: Alex Candelier
Mindful Eating Habits & Nutrition: We all know how easy it is to use your flex at Chick-fil-A or grab a quick bite at the vending machines before class. But the reality is, it's not that hard to have a balanced nutrition on or off campus. JMU Dining has plenty of healthier options like Freshens and the upstairs buffets with self-serve sandwiches and salad bowls. Off-campus meal prepping doesn't have to be a hassle, either. Find a few healthier dishes that you love off Pinterest (my personal fav) and make that in bulk for leftovers throughout the week so you're not tempted to eat out because you "have nothing in the house to eat."
Regular Exercise & Movement: It can be hard to find time in your busy college days to workout or get movement in but trust me, you will feel so much better mentally and physically if you do. Weekends are your best friend…and so is UREC. I utilize as much of UREC as possible because the workout classes are all FREE for students! How amazing is that? They offer a variety of options like HIIT, cycling, yoga, pilates, boxing, and more when you register through their website. Bringing a friend makes it much more fun and some of these are only a quick 45 mins if you're in a rush. Whether you're making the most of UREC or simply going for a nice long walk across campus, getting those steps in will make you feel so much better.
Prioritizing Mental Health & Self Care: Amidst life's social and academic pressures, make sure you're taking time throughout the week to give yourself some time to relax. This could mean taking a literal nap in between classes/work, watching your favorite TV show as a brain break, hanging out with friends on the weekends, or picking up your dorm/apartment as a Sunday reset. It's essential to have a fine line between academic/work responsibilities and giving yourself me-time. This is what weekends are for, so take advantage of them!