Whether it's the boost of vitamin D, the freedom to set your own schedule (and sleeping habits), the absence of pressing deadlines or being able to catch up with your friends, there's something about summer that simply melts stress away. Sadly, like all good things, our fun in the sun must come to an end, as the school year lurks around the corner. But just because you're starting a new semester doesn't mean you have to abandon the summer zen entirely. Here are eight ways to maintain your summer glow even after the start of term.
1. Work it.
In the words of Elle Woods, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy." There are a seemingly endless number of physical benefits to working out, but hitting the gym can have a profound impact on your mental health as well. Getting between 30 to 60 minutes of exercise three to five times a week can reduce your likelihood of developing depression, increase your judgment skills and can help you to sleep better.
2. Drink tea.
Caffeine is a given in any college environment, but black tea has been shown to lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
3. Don't get behind.
Assignments can pile up quickly during the first semester. As tempting as the siren's call of procrastination can be, don't give into it. After all, there's nothing worse than the stress of starting a 30-page essay the night before it's due. Keep track of each project you're assigned, especially throughout the beginning of the semester and set deadlines for yourself so you can accomplish everything in bite-sized pieces.
4. Treat yo self.
Academic life gets stressful quickly. It's important to make time for yourself. Whether you're watching Netflix, taking up knitting or even doing something as simple as a coffee run, don't forget to find time for yourself to improve your mental wellbeing.
5. Focus your energy in mediation or prayer.
Regardless of whether you're spiritual or not, meditation has been shown to offer a wide array of benefits, from reducing levels of anxiety and depression to improving attention, concentration and your overall emotional wellbeing. These skills are not only helpful in improving your inner levels of happiness, but can also make you sharper in your classes.
6. Color.
I've delved into the many benefits of coloring in the past. Psychologists have continued to discover the many benefits that accompany coloring. Spend sometime harnessing your inner child to beat back stress if your feel yourself getting overwhelmed.
7. Pump up the volume.
Whether you're more of a Chainsmokers or a Halsey fan, listening to music has been linked to a number of positive effects for mental health, from reducing stress to curing headaches and increasing creativity.
8. Get some D -- vitamin D, that is.
Long days in the sun are a given throughout the summertime, however, it becomes a little more challenging to get out during the school year. This is bad news for your levels of vitamin D, which is produced by spending time in the sun.
Vitamin D has been shown to prevent illnesses like MS, heart disease and the flu, and has been shown to help with weight loss and reduce symptoms of Depression. . Nevertheless, research has shown that three-quarters of Americans are deficient in vitamin D.
The easiest way to fight a vitamin D deficiency? Get outside.
Getting between 10 and 20 minutes of extra sun can radically increase your levels of vitamin D, plus, sunshine has been shown to increase your brain's serotonin levels, decrease your chances of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder and reduce your risks for cancer