Here we are, a month into college and the novelty is starting to wear off. It’s getting cold, midterms are right around the corner, everyone is getting sick and you're just not feeling too great. Everyone needs to practice self-care, and here are some tips you can try out right from your dorm room.
1. Drink tea
Miss the aroma of candles or incense that calmed you down after a long day? A nice cup of hot herbal tea might do the trick! Wegmans has a large selection of teas to choose from. Heat some water up in your microwave, brew your tea, and inhale the warm scent.2. Listen to music
Spotify and Pandora have some great playlists for relaxing tunes. Try Relax and Unwind on Spotify, lie back and breathe.
3. Stretch
Get your muscles moving! Here are some stretches you can do lying in bed or sitting at your desk:Spinal Twists
In bed, lie on your back with your arms out in a T. Tuck your knees to your chest, twist your spine to the left and hold it. Then twist to the right.
Half Happy Baby
No, this isn’t going to feel 100 percent natural, but it's worth it. Lie flat on your back, then bend your left knee up and hold the sole of your foot with both hands. Press until your knee hits the bed by your shoulder. Repeat with your right leg.
Chest and Biceps
Sitting at your desk, interlock your fingers behind your back with your arms straight. Raise your arms while keeping your shoulders relaxed.
Leg Stretch
Sit up straight with both feet on the floor. Raise one leg and hold it straight out in front of you. Rotate your ankle left and right. Repeat with your other leg.
4. Keep a Journal
There are so many types of journals for all different journaling inclinations. Here are some examples you can try if traditional journaling doesn't appeal to you.Bullet Journals
Bullet journals are a way of staying organized but in a crafty way.
Smash Books
Like scrapbooking for the less artistically inclined! You document everything that matters to you without worrying about how it’s organized. There are kits you can buy on Amazon, or any journal will do.
Dream Journals
These are great because they motivate you to sleep and wake you up in the morning. Get your brain juices flowing by writing down what you dreamt about before you forget it!
Coloring Books
Coloring books are another great way to release your feelings on paper. There are a few different coloring books with journaling spaces like this one.
5. Call a friend
FaceTime is great! Text a friend from home and set up a Skype session to catch up!
6. Open up your curtains and let the sun in
Winter is coming. Make the most of the autumn sunlight and let it in. Open your windows and air out the room (if it’s not too cold.)
7. Clean your room
Get everything back to where it is supposed to be. Stack up your books, put away your clothes, take out the trash and wash your dishes. You will feel better afterwards. And, if you do your laundry, you can roll around in the heavenly fabric softener scent.
8. Get cozy and be comfy
Put on your comfiest pajamas and watch your favorite childhood movie. Sing along to "The Lion King" and curl up with your laptop in your warmest socks and softest sweatshirt.
And remember, always seek help if you are struggling. Someone is there to listen.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255
Chris Chat http://www.crisischat.org
