Although it is challenging to balance your school work, extracurriculars and social life in college, it is imperative to get your rest and relax! Getting a good night's sleep benefits both your mental and physical health. Now that midterms are just around the corner, no one wants to be too tired or stressed. Having a good night's sleep will make you feel more energized, motivated, focused and happy. Here are some tips for de-stressing and getting a perfect night's sleep!
1. Make a to-do list
Making to-do lists in college are helpful and will allow you to feel less overwhelmed and more organized! Every morning, create a to-do list of all the different tasks that you have to do that day. Block out certain times that you will do those tasks. Checking tasks off of your list is one of the best feelings ever!
2. Don't overbook yourself
The worst thing to do while creating a to-do list is to overbook yourself. You should make your to-do list reasonable. While it is nice to be busy, being too busy can be stressful. Make your to-do lists about five to seven tasks long each day.
3. Eat three meals a day
Eating three meals a day is important for your health. You will feel more energized throughout your day and will avoid overeating. Skipping meals is detrimental to your health because you are not getting all of the nutrients that your body needs to function.
4. Go outside and exercise
Get outside — fresh air is good for you! Go on a walk outside, try a new fitness class or explore new hiking trails. You may be surprised by how calm you feel from spending time outside. You will also find that exercising everyday will help you get a good night's sleep.
5. Color
Take out your fancy adult coloring book — we all know that you have one! These books aren’t just for when you are bored. Coloring is therapeutic and is beneficial for your mental, emotional and intellectual health. You will feel calm after coloring since it will distract you from stressful events in your life.
6. Light a candle
Lighting a candle is the most relaxing thing in the world! Who doesn’t love reading a book in bed with a fresh candle lit next to you? Scented candles can alter one’s mood significantly, so go out and treat yourself to a nice smelling candle.
7. Take a nap
Napping is a great way to recharge during the day, but napping too frequently throughout your day can cause you to become stressed and have a restless night's sleep. Take one nap a day and make sure to set an alarm for 15-20 minutes!
8. Prepare for the next day
Preparing the night before will help you feel less overwhelmed and rushed. By doing that, you will be less likely to forget anything! Every night, take time to set aside everything that you may need for the day ahead. Pack your backpack and even pick out your outfit for the next day before you go to bed.
9. Sleep
While you may struggle to go to sleep and wake up at the same time everyday, it is important to make sure to get 8-10 hours of sleep each night. It may seem impossible because you are so busy, but sleep is important for your mental, physical and emotional health. It may help to get into your bed and unwind before you actually go to bed.
