During the school year, I'm sure I'm not the only one who cheats her way around doing healthy habits for herself. I consider it an accomplishment if I manage to eat two meals in a day and one of those is more than an apple. I have started thinking of some of my college habits that I should be changing during the summer in order to be a healthier me, and most likely a bit more organized and happier.

1. Eating Three Meals

Eating three rich and dense meals is so much better for you than squeezing in one giant meal a day. During the summer, there is an abundance of fresh fruits at every corner ready to be eaten. Take these next few months to enjoy the sweetness of blueberries, strawberries, or any fruit to your liking!

2. Fruit Detox Water

All of these fresh fruits can be utilized more than just eating. Put some blueberries and raspberries in an ice tray with some water, pop into into the freezer, then put in a cup of water with some mint and you have a wonderful, refreshing drink! Detox waters can help remove toxins in your stomach that will benefit your digestive track and your overall well being. Detox waters are also tasty and refreshing during the hot summer. Here are some of my personal favorites: http://www.diyncrafts.com/7075/health/20-delicious...

3. Getting up

I know it may be tempting to sleep in till three in the afternoon, especially after a busy college semester, but use this summer break to get up in the morning and get your day started on a happy note. When you get up early, you can possibly catch your parents before they head off work. In the morning, it is significantly cooler outside, so take this time to take your dog for a walk or go on a bike ride. Getting up and moving in the morning is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Plus, when you get tasks done early, it leaves plenty of room for a fun filled evening!

4. Yoga

YouTube will become your best friend when it comes to working out for the lowest price possible. All you need for yoga is a youtube account and an $8 yoga mat from TJ Maxx. Yoga has incredible health benefits, such as maintaining balance and stress levels, increased flexibility, and leveling circulation. Yoga will be a great start and end to your day, since it relaxes and stretches your muscles.

5. Exercising

I am not talking about acquiring a gym membership and becoming a gym rat. You can utilize YouTube to your benefit for free workout videos to help get you in shape. A great one is "Blogilates with Cassy Ho". However, I am talking about a different type of exercising. I am talking about exploring your world around you with nature trails, national parks, state parks, hiking, canoeing, and walking around a city or a beach. Getting outside during this time of year will be nothing but a good time, especially with gorgeous views and great friends.

6. Reconnect With An Old Friend

Everyone has that friend that they wished they talked to a bit more. Take this time of the year to do that! Call up an old friend and go out for coffee or ice cream. Catching up with an old friend is good for the soul because it is heart warming and reminds you of some wonderful memories.

7. Value Family Time

I know how tempting it is to want to spend every second of your summer with your high school or college friends, but value those who value you the most. Spending time with your family will always be priceless. Go on a walk with your mom and make sure she knows how appreciated she is. Take your dad out for a milkshake and tell him thank you for all that he does for you. Go out for a car ride with your siblings and play some of your favorite music. Call your grandparents and let them know how much and you love and miss them. I didn't value my family time before I left for college and I instantly regretted it. Take your family time more seriously, you will be happy you did.

8. Have A Bonfire

Nothing says a good time better than acoustic music, s'mores, family and friends, and a bonfire. Being underneath the stars with wonderful treats and people leave the happiest of memories. Some of my personal favorite memories with my dad involve a s'more and a bonfire. Have a safe bonfire and enjoy the people in your life.

9. Volunteer

You are not busy 24/7 during your summer vacation. Take time out of your summer to give back to your community. This is the community that supported you throughout your education career that helped you get to college. Charity organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, local soup kitchens, and churches are always in need of volunteers. As my wonderful sorority creed states, "to those whom my life may touch in slight measure, may I give graciously of what is mine." Use this time off to create some good karma and do some good things for your community.

10. Find A New Hobby

Last summer, I really got into adult coloring books. Coloring is relaxing, but still works the brain. Use this break to stimulate your mind in simple, non-stressful ways with activities like coloring, reading for fun, cooking, and photography. Keeping your mind stimulated even though it is summer will help you get back into the swing of things when school rolls around in August. It is always good for your mind to take a break from the computer and focus on something else.

11. Take Time For You

Be selfish; do things that are good for your soul. During the school year, it is easy to lose yourself with studying, homework, deadlines, etc. Be selfish and do things that you want to do. If you want to travel, find a buddy (or go by yourself) and travel. If you want to read an entire series, do it. If you want to eat chocolate all day and talk to no one, that's perfectly fine. Do things that are good for you, and your soul.

Summer tends to fly by, so enjoy it while doing things that are beneficial to your mental, emotional, and physical health.