Self Care: The Broke College Girl’s Edition
As I’m writing this article, I lay on the grass as I listen to the refreshing rhythm of the fountain water in the background. This scenic background makes me feel relaxed, refreshed, and like I’m in my element. One can even go as far to claim that this is a form of self care. Initially liked by all, the word “self-care” has lost its original meaning and now comes with a commercialized definition that is synonymous with self indulgence. As college students, however, it can get very hard for us to indulge in these behaviors due to the additional financial constraints that comes with it. So, to help all of us out during this finals szn, here is a list of self-care habits college students can practice without breaking the bank!
A relaxing night routine
A little bit of stretching/ Yoga, a long hot shower (cause we know baths cannot be a thing in those shared bathrooms), and a cup of chamomile tea does wonders for me every single time. This simple three step routine allows me to unwind and relax the right away every single night while ensuring that my mind and body health both stay intact. This is of course, just a sample, you can find out what works for you and stick to it. Maybe include journaling if that's your thing or light up a candle if that aides in your relaxation process. Whatever it is, it is a win as long as it makes you feel better.
Clean your room
Mess creates stress. And your stress is only going to get amplified when you can’t find your favorite shirt when you need it. Block one day off the week for Marie-Kondoing your room. Do your laundry, do all the dishes, wash your sheets, vacuum the floors, open your blinds and windows and put things back where they belong. I’m sorry if I sound like your mom, but sometimes, doing something that you’ve been putting off for a long time can relieve a tremendous amount of stress and make you feel better. So, get the cleaning supplies ready, put on your favorite throwback jams, and get cleaning!
Immerse yourself in the greater community
Sometimes, the excessive workload and pressure that comes from college life can make one feel isolated and helpless. When we immerse ourselves in something greater than us, it helps us gain back a perspective on our life all the while helping us stay grounded. Further, by immersing yourself in the greater community, you will find that you are not alone in this journey and that there are many others who are on the same boat as you. This feeling of community and support can definitely serve as a free form of self care for those who need it.
Sleep
Seems embarrassingly simple, and yet, not enough of us do it. Did you know that not getting enough sleep makes it twice as more likely for you to recall negative events rather than positive ones? Sleep is pivotal for you to healthily function, and that extra episode of your netflix binge can wait. In order to create better sleeping habits, start implementing a night routine in place. That way, as you go through your routine, your mind understands the cue that it is time for you to fall asleep and this might just make the process a little easier. This will help you feel healthy, refreshed and relaxed the next day!
It is very easy for us to let our good habits go while in college, which is why it is imperative for us to try and practice them whenever we can. These are just some of the self-care practices that I personally follow and recommend and I hope these help you out too!