Self-Care Tips for College Students

By Donna Stark

You know it's coming. The stress, the late nights, the poor eating habits. Yes, that time of year is right around the corner and no, I am not talking about the busy holiday season. I'm talking to the college students right now, the ones who are feeling the weight of the world on their shoulders as finals week looms over their heads. This semester has certainly been tough, hasn't it? With online-only classes and social distancing guidelines, it's no wonder so many young adults are ready to throw in the towel! Fortunately, there are several things they can do to reduce the levels of stress and anxiety they are experiencing!

Self-Care for College Students

Between maintaining good grades, working part-time, and making sure mom gets her weekly call, it's easy to see how a college student can feel overwhelmed. But what's worse, is when that feeling becomes exacerbated during the week of finals. Every student should prioritize self-care throughout the school year, but they should especially focus on doing so during the few weeks leading up to the end of the semester. Here are some helpful tips on how to start.

• Get adjusted regularly - By placing the spine in proper alignment, the function of the body's nervous system can be improved. And since the nervous system is responsible for the body's response to stress, college students can begin to look forward to smoother days ahead after getting adjusted. Routine chiropractic care also helps to ease muscle tension and improve the quality of sleep they are getting.
• Stick to a routine - It's important for students to stick to a routine so they can manage their time and reduce their stress. They should make sure they are eating healthily, staying physically active, and sleeping the recommended number of hours every day. Keeping a regular schedule can help them feel their best at all times.
• Create a personal oasis - As much fun as it is to hang with friends, everyone needs their own personal space to decompress. College students can create their own little slice of paradise by bringing personal items from home, covering their beds with plush blankets and pillows, purchasing a comfortable chair, and investing in a great mattress. They can also add candles, diffusers, and white noise machines to help them escape reality.

Ending the Semester on a Great Note! 

There's more to college than just fun and games, and a lot of what there is can trigger hidden stressors. It's completely understandable for some students to feel overwhelmed, but with the strategies listed above, they can at least end the semester on a stress-free note!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bellevue, Wash.