By Emily Gianni
Leaving 2021 and entering 2022, I knew I needed to better my body and mind. As the old, and way overused motto goes, “new year, new me.” I am slowly figuring out ways to be mentally and physically healthy in 2022, but here’s what I have worked on so far:
Surround myself with people who make me better
I am finally distancing myself from people who do not want to see me succeed or be the best version of myself. I am surrounding myself with more people who will tell me the honest truth and make me happy. When I started to do this, I became a much happier and more confident person. Although it is hard to distance yourself from those toxic friends, it really will change your mood.
Go to the gym
I just started to go to the gym about two months ago, and this has definitely changed my mood. Going to the gym allows me to get my mind off of anything that stresses me out and focus on bettering my body. I have also noticed some physical changes; I have gotten stronger and I have more defined muscles. When I go to the gym, I go with a friend or two and we workout together. Even though beginning to go to the gym can be scary, you will get more comfortable as you do it more. You also do not have to go for hours everyday, even a quick workout is okay; just get your body moving!
Drink more water
I normally am really good with drinking water, but when I went home for break, I stopped drinking water. I try to drink half of my body weight in ounces of water everyday, which is the recommended amount for you to drink. By increasing the amount of water you drink, you can boost your metabolism. I always have a water bottle with me when I go to class and you would be surprised how much water you drink without even noticing.
Get enough sleep
Sleep has always been super important to me. If I do not get enough sleep, I am NOT having a good day because I get really grouchy. This semester, I have my first 8 a.m. class, which means I need to have a good sleeping schedule to get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep. Sleep allows your body and mind to recharge, as well as prevent you from getting sick. For obvious reasons, getting enough sleep to keep your immune system strong is important during COVID times.
Leave time for activities I enjoy
Since I started college, I have filled my plate with activities to do: HerCampus, cheerleading, Sigma Delta Tau. I have to balance all of these activities with school, work, and a personal life. This is why I need to have good time management skills to fit everything into my schedule. I personally need a planner to remember everything I have going on, which really does help me a tremendous amount. If you are a little disorganized or overwhelmed, I would definitely recommend a planner! Although school and work are important, give yourself a little break during the day to do something you enjoy. Doing a fun activity like a craft or playing a game with your friends will keep you happy and sane.