Some people have a natural tendency to want to help others, or be there for them when their friends are upset, or even go out of their way to ensure other peoples’ happiness. While these are wonderful things to do for the people you love and care about, it is just as important to take care of yourself. People around you will always have highs and lows, whether they are your friends, family, or significant other. If you happen to be caught at a time when it seems that everyone around you is struggling, remember that it is not selfish to sit down and think about your own health as well. Here are five simple ways you can take care of yourself:
1. Meditation
If you are the type of person who cannot sit still and always has to move around and keep busy, I would highly recommend meditation. It doesn’t have to be long (most guided meditations on phone apps are 5 to 10 minutes) and you don’t necessarily have to sit cross legged with your hands on your knees. This exercise can be taken anywhere, from your bed to your desk chair. It can help you fall asleep or it can just give you a few minutes of peace where you don’t worry about anything but your breathing.
2. Writing a journal or a planner
This one is my personal favorite. If you have had a crazy day and your stress levels are through the roof, sometimes it feels great to sit down and write down all of your feelings. Whether you write a few bullet points or five pages, it is a great way to vent and get all of your thoughts out in the open. It rids of that feeling like you’re holding back your feelings and allows you to look back on your feelings a few days or weeks later. As for a planner, if you love to organize your life, decorating and writing important dates down in a planner is a great way to make a schedule for yourself (especially during finals!).
3. Listening to music
Everyone loves music. Everyone has a favorite song, band, concert, Broadway musical, artist, etc. Music has been known to change your mood and it can be the perfect escape from reality. Putting in your earphones or turning up the speakers is a great way to tune the world out and just enjoy your favorite tunes.
4. Take a walk
If you’re a college student, chances are you spend a lot of time inside. This can be due to the weather or the excessive amounts of work you have to do. Either way, going for a nice short walk down the street can be very helpful. If you are shut in your room all day staring at your computer or trying to force yourself to study when your brain is not yet focused, I definitely recommend taking a walk. Sometimes all we need as humans is some fresh air to rejuvenate our brain and sharpen its focus.
5. Talk to those you trust
There will always be people (friends, family, significant others, relatives, siblings, etc.) who love and care for you who will walk alongside you through every bump and turn. The biggest thing everyone should remember is that by telling the people you love that you’re going through a rough time, it does not make you a burden. You deserve to be heard and you do not have to walk your path alone.
