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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Utica chapter.

In college, there is a lot to be stressed about. Between tests, homework and everything in between, we can sometimes forget to make time for ourselves. If we can make time for everyone else, there is no reason not to find time for ourselves.

We must remember to make time to be good to ourselves, or else your mental health can suffer. Here are 10 self care practices to start this week.

1. Know your limits

According to Psychology Today, self care means knowing what your limits are. This means knowing when to take a step back from everything that is going on in your life and make some time for you to be able to just unwind. If you are taking on too much in your life at once, it is important to realize that and slow down a bit.

2.  Remember to eat well

Being good to ourselves also applies to what we choose to put into our bodies. The other day, I went 13 hours only eating a granola bar. I just got so busy between classes and homework that I completely neglected my body. It is important to take breaks when doing work to make sure that your body has enough nutrients in it so that it can continue to function properly.

3. Find time for yourself

It is important to take time out of your day where you are able to do something for you. Whether that is taking a bath, reading a book, or watching netflix. You need to do something that is able to relax you, and have a time where you are able to do something apart from homework or studying.

4. Get enough sleep

Knowing how much sleep you should be getting each night is another important aspect of self care. Your body cannot function properly if it is not getting enough sleep each night. Be kind to yourself.

5. Lower your expectations

I used to think that getting a bad grade was the end of the world. I would beat myself up about it for weeks, feeling guilty. I would tell myself that I was not smart enough, not good enough. Just not enough. Now that I am older (and only slightly wiser) I know that this was not a good self care practice. I’ve learned to be easier on myself, as well as kinder. It still stings when I get a bad grade, but instead of telling myself that I am not good enough, I tell myself that I will do better next time. And more often than not, I do.

6. Pet a dog (or cat)

When life gets too hard, I am grateful I have friends who own cats and dogs. Petting a furry friend (for me at least) helps to release the stress that has been building.

7. Clean your room

I know most people (including myself) neglect to clean their room throughout the week. Whenever I am having a particular stressful week, having a clean room can help how I am feeling because it takes away from the stress. Having a messy room seems to add to my stress, in my opinion. Also, cleaning can be very therapeutic, and it is an hour where I am focused on something else besides that paper that is due tomorrow. It is a chance to unwind before getting back into things.

8. Get a journal

I have found during my almost four years of college that writing my thoughts down can be very calming. There are some things you just don’t want to talk to anyone about, but have to get out in some way. Instead of keeping these thoughts inside, writing them down can be another way to release them without opening your mouth.

9. Go to your room

I have found, as an introvert, that sometimes I just need to be alone. When I get too stressed out, one of my first choices, besides screaming, (it is very therapeutic) is to close my door and watch Netflix by myself. After that, I feel ready to face almost anything that life (and my professors) throw at me.

10. Scream

I know this sounds weird, but it is very calming. My roommates (who I am very grateful still put up with me) know when I am stressed as soon as I walk  in the door. If it is a good day, I will say “I’m home!”. If it is a bad day, what comes out of my mouth resembles a T-Rex roar. Due to its calming effects, I consider this a form of self care.

There are many ways to practice being kinder to yourself. No matter what you choose, remember to take time for yourself and get away from all the stressers of college.

Maggie Reid

Utica '19

If you need to find me, I am probably reading, writing, or looking at dog videos. Lover of corgis, chocolate, and coffee.
Bianca Nitti

Utica '20

Meet Bianca, I am currently a Junior at Utica College in Utica, NY.  I am a Criminal Justice major with a concentration in Homeland Security.  Crime investigation has always been something that interests me.  I’m dedicated and passionate and it’s hard for me to quit things. I get that from my father so don’t hold it against me- he was a veteran and police officer for 20 years.   Growing up in a family centered around law enforcement has helped guide me in this direction, and I will forever be grateful.  After graduation I intend to continue on to law school where I can further my education in hopes of becoming a criminal defense lawyer and later on a District Attorney.  An interesting fact about myself is that I found the passion to be a criminal defense lawyer from watching the O.J. Simpson case.  The facts and conspiracy theories evoked a whole new passion behind criminal investigation that I intend to use in my future.  One of my most prominent moments in my writing career was when I wrote for an online magazine and had my most prevalent article hit 1.6k shares.  I believe in treating people with the same kind of respect and manners you would expect in return, and in a way it has helped shaped my expectations in life.   When you first meet me I won’t be the loudest in the room or the center of attention, but I will be intently listening to everything you say, for what you have to say may have a purpose. I believe in purpose. I believe that everyone is here to help you grow into who you are today and who you will be tomorrow.