Just because everyone is doing it, doesn’t mean I have to also, right? We all do stupid things. I am not talking about leaving your purse in Starbucks or locking your keys in your car. No, I am talking about the common things we do everyday that adversely affect our health.
I’m not trying to scare you into believing this is the reason why you can’t shed those last two pounds or why you haven’t aced your History class this semester. But, these are some things to think about; and hopefully will inspire you to change some guilty habits.
Rushing through a meal
Here at “Work Forest” time is everything. Suddenly, eating becomes a chore, too. Rushing through a meal is actually one of the worst things you can do when it comes to dieting. The faster you eat, the less time you are giving your stomach to digest, so you end up eating more. If you take your time to finish a meal, you may end up eating less food, which equates to less time you need to spend in the gym!
Pulling an all-nighter
Speaking of being busy, skipping sleep is a common “solution” to getting work done. This solution is not the correct answer. The more tired you get, the less likely your brain can retain information. Also, if all-nighters are your thing, irregular sleep patterns can seriously harm your long-term health, leading to obesity, diabetes, and depression. We think our short-term work is important right now, but our health outweighs it in the long run.
Texting while walking
We collegiettes are super multitaskers; but no matter how great our talents, do not underestimate the ability to text while walking. If you watch the Quad on a normal school day, you will notice how often people run into one another as they are looking at their phones. While it is annoying for another person to dart around you as you are busy texting your new boy toy, texting and walking can be dangerous, too. I have seen people walk into poles, ditches, and even out in front of cars. So, collegiettes, get those thumbs off your iPhone screen and watch where you are going!
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Studying With Music
People say listening to Mozart is good for brain development, but did you know his music (well, all music) actually decreases your ability to recall information while studying? Researchers have found that studying in complete silence is the best way for people to memorize information. That being said – if you must listen to music, it’s more beneficial to listen to instrumental.
Reading in Bed
After a long, hard day, you may want to relax with a Nicholas Sparks book, or maybe get your Kardashian fix. Seems harmless, right? Wrong. Doing activities before falling asleep in bed can re-wire your brain into thinking your bed is not meant for sleeping. So it may actually be harder for you to fall asleep on those nights you don’t watch TV or read your book.
Using your phone before falling asleep – and keeping it by your pillow!
I often find myself trying to fall asleep, only to be rudely awakened by the vibration of my phone next to my head. Of course, I have to answer it. But, did you know this not only delays your sleep, but is bad for your eyes, too? The bright contrast from your phone screen against the darkness of your room can strain your eyes. So, while you are in bed, turn on the light before answering – and better yet, turn your phone on silent!
If everyone would just cut out these 6 unhealthy habits, we’d all be healthier!