Ways to step back and connect with yourself.
In my last article, I addressed that some of us starting this new semester aren’t excited or necessarily ready for it. This article aims to provide some support for those students. I know that school can be tough for a lot of different reasons. It’s easy to feel alone or even lose sight of yourself in difficult times. Here are a list of ways that one can reconnect or maintain connection with themselves this semester. Doing so not only keeps you mentally healthy, but can help with your social and academic life, too. These activities are supported by various articles on the internet, but are not meant to serve as a cure to any mental illness. Of course, a healthcare professional is necessary to treat disorders and illnesses. I’ve listed these activities in order of what I think is most enjoyable, as well as most realistic for college age students. I hope you enjoy!
- Music and alone time
When I’m feeling down or separate from myself, alone time is sometimes very beneficial. I like to go into a quiet room and lay down, allowing myself to just breathe and focus on the moment. While silence can be soothing, other times music is a nice addition to your space. Any music, from sad to rock can be enjoyed as you lay or even dance around with nobody but yourself. This process can last minutes to hours if you have the time to spare. Take care of you!
- Shopping
Who doesn’t love to shop? Okay, I admit, not everyone enjoys it as much as I do. Shopping, whether it be at a mall or online, can be a fun way to separate yourself from the stress in your life. You don’t even have to buy anything — sometimes looking can be just as fun. Check out malls, tik-tok shops, and much more to clear your mind. It can also help you express yourself. I love seeing something and thinking “yep, that’s totally me.”
- Exercise
This one is a no brainer. It’s been scientifically proven that exercise is good for your health — all of your health, from physical, mental, emotional, and even social. Boost your step count, muscle mass, and confidence as you separate from the stress of your life and interact with your mind and body.
- Meditation
Some of us are meditation pros, while others can’t imagine committing time to sitting with our legs crossed and eyes shut. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, meditation could be a beneficial activity for you. This is proven to be a great way to be in touch with your mind, spirit, and emotions, as well as deal with the stress in your life. Sometimes all someone needs is a minute to breathe and reconnect with themselves before addressing things in their lives.
- Food run
I think all college students are hungry. We have to get up early and stay awake late, go to classes and learn as much as we can, and worry about work, friendships, and other commitments. We need energy to do all of this on top of restful sleep. Luckily, most college towns have a Sheetz and other gas stations with some yummy options. Or, if you enjoy home cooked meals, places like Aldi and Giant Eagle have healthy options to fuel you for your days. It’s important that all students recognize the importance of staying hydrated, rested, and fed. Also, eating can boost our moods and make us happy. Maybe that macaroni and cheese takes you right back to your childhood, filling you with enjoy. Or maybe those ramen noodles may make you laugh as you realize that you’re matching the college stereotype. Food is a large part of culture and can be a great way to reconnect with it and yourself. Use this necessity to your advantage, and fill your tummies and hearts this semester.
I hope this article helps someone! Best of luck to all of you college students out there. You can do this! :)