We’ve all been there, got a little too comfortable, a little too lazy living away from home. When university gets overwhelming it’s too easy to slip into unhealthy habits, lose motivation. Keeping fit and healthy during these down days is the only way to get out of a rut. Here’s a few tips on getting back to that healthy, happy you.
Make the Most out of your Gym Membership!
Yes, your gym membership. It is one of the most important tools in keeping healthy at university. If you are part of a sports society chances are you have one for training but do you actually make the most of it? For the sake of £220 I think it’s time to start. Finding time to use the gym for things other than team sessions is actually really helpful. Have you ever thought about booking a morning HITT class or evening yoga slot? Trying something new could really spice up your fitness schedule and is also a great way to socialise. Another underrated benefit of a gym membership is pool access. The last time I went swimming must have been circa’ 15 which seems crazy when there’s a pool on your doorstep. With so much on offer there’s no way you’ll get bored – even after three years of university.
Get Some Fresh Air
It’s so easy to fall into the trap of staying in, especially when the weather is still gloomy. Getting out of your house at least once a day is a must for staying happy and healthy. Even if it’s just a five minute walk to the nearest shop. The fresh air is bound to do you good. Changing up your surroundings is great for your motivation too. Instead of procrastinating at home, with the radiator turned up on full, go for a walk around campus. Find a bench and indulge in some people watching. Every little helps even leaving for lectures five minute early to take a scenic route will battle oncoming cabin fever.
Meal planning!
Okay, this one takes a little more organisation and planning to get right. I promise it is worth it. Getting yourself into a good schedule now will set you up for deadline/exam season and also save you some money! Plan meals for the week that suit your level of activity, make a shopping list and stick to it. Be strict with yourself, don’t cave into takeaways save them for a treat. You’ll begin to notice how easy cooking for yourself becomes and maybe start to really enjoy it. Thinking about eating as less of a chore and more of a hobby is a very healthy mindset. You’ll see the effort you put in transcends to all aspects of uni life. If you get really good you could even start meal prepping. Its best to ask your housemates if they mind the fridge filling up with all your Tupperware first though.
Stay Hydrated (Water!!)
An obvious one, but one I’m pretty sure one we all forget. When university life gets busy it is easy to neglect staying hydrated. The best and only way to do that is water. Coffee, juice, milk and especially alcohol are NOT substitutes for water – no matter how many times you try to convince yourself otherwise. Keeping a bottle, or glass of water around you at all times will encourage frequent hydration. Whether you count Nottingham as the Midlands or not, it’s been said to have some of the best tasting tap water. So there’s really no reason not to pour yourself a glass right now.
Wind Down Before Bed
Finding ways to wind down after a long day can sometimes seem difficult, especially when you live with other students. Getting a bit of R&R is essential to staying healthy at university. A bad night’s sleep tonight is only going to put you in a bad mood tomorrow – not ideal. A few ideas to try; read a book that isn’t course related, listen to music, use mindfulness or meditation apps. Whatever it is you find works for you, stay away from screens and social media- see how much better you feel in a weeks time.
Things like this are often easier said than done. If you can implement even one of these tips into your routine you’re sure to see the benefits. University isn’t just about lectures and essays- it’s about enjoying yourself. Something that goes hand in hand with staying healthy. Look after your body and it will look after you.