The ultimate guide for effortless self-care straight from the source:
your fellow students.
Feeling buried under assignments, exams or just the everyday hustle? It’s time to hit pause and show yourself some love. Who better to guide you than your fellow students? We went around campus and students shared their go-to self-care routines, so you can steal a few ideas and start living your best, stress-free life.
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and face masks (though we’re all for that). It’s about nurturing your physical, mental and emotional health in ways that truly work for you.
Whether you’re into quick daily habits or more elaborate rituals, these student-approved routines are here to help you chill out, recharge and keep your balance throughout the school year.
Unlock instant calm fix
If you’ve been sleeping on mindfulness, it’s time to wake up. Many students swear by just 10 minutes of meditation a day to cut through the chaos and bring some calm into their lives
Pratik Gokani who’s taking up public administration, shares some personal experience and advice on meditation.
“To relax, I would say mindfulness and meditation are the best words. I have practiced going from fast breathing to slow breathing repeatedly from 10 to 15 minutes. And if you are having conflicting thoughts while you are meditating, I suggest you be still and entertain the thoughts without getting attached to them,” Gokani said.
Clear your mind, focus on the present and get a fresh take on whatever’s stressing you out.
Find rest in faith
Amid the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding moments of peace can be a challenge.
For the trio of friends, Joel Waddell, Christopher Besla and Selene Remular, turning to spiritual practices offers a much-needed sanctuary.
“We’ve started dedicating Fridays to spiritual practices,” Wadell said.
Remular says that engaging in worship and reconnecting with faith is like hitting their reset button which helps them focus on what really matters.
So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider making time for spiritual practices — it might just give you the peace and clarity you need to tackle the week ahead.
Explore outdoors
There’s something magical about being outside. Whether it’s a park stroll, a hike or just sitting under a tree, nature is an amazing way to reset your mind and body.
Kamaljeet Kaur Sran who’s in the teaching English as a second language program mentions friends as a great stress-relief option.
“If you meet good people and friends that would be a great way to de-stress. You can go out and explore places with them,” Sran said.
Spending time in nature, whether it’s exploring new spots with friends or simply enjoying the outdoors, can be a refreshing way to reset your mind and body.
Embrace creativity
Creativity isn’t just for art majors. Whether it’s painting, drawing or crafting, getting your creative juices flowing is a great way to de-stress and express yourself.
“I love to paint in my downtime. It’s like therapy, allowing me to express my feelings through art,” Hxlarisse Alyana Idala, a business management student, said.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, diving into some creative activities can be the solution. It can be a powerful way to unwind and find your inner calm.
Catch those ZZZs
Let’s be real — sleep is non-negotiable. A consistent sleep schedule and a calming bedtime routine can do wonders for your overall health and help you tackle whatever the day throws your way.
Linda Wang, a student in the music program, highlights the importance and benefits of getting enough sleep.
“Getting enough rest is important. It helps you to be more productive when you are working, so it’s important to make time for yourself and prioritize your needs in terms of being healthy and your sleep,” Wang said.
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to catch some Zs between classes, visit the IGNITE Sleep Lounge. It’s the perfect escape from the campus noise that helps you recharge to stay sharp and energized throughout the day. Don’t skimp on sleep — it’s your secret weapon for success!
Life gets busy, but don’t forget, you’re your top priority! Whether it’s grabbing a quick nap or simply taking a moment to breathe, make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. It’s okay to step back, relax and focus on what makes you happy. Remember, when you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to crush everything else.
If you’re on campus and need a break, the IGNITE Zen Zone at the Lakeshore campus is your go-to spot. Tucked away in the K building’s basement, it’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge.
Got any go-to stress busters? Share them with us @shareignite.
Feature image courtesy of Luis Villamil via Unsplash.
Looking for relaxation and tranquility in other areas of your life? Learn more about how you can transform your personal space to offer you more peace and comfort.
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