College-age kids often struggle with self-image. We're still finding ourselves and our style. We're still learning to be comfortable in our own skin. It takes a while, and that's okay. Here are a few ideas for how to boost your confidence when you're having a 'blah' kind of day.
1. Exercise/go for a run
I have to admit, I don't exercise that often. Other than walking to class and the store, I pretty much just sit in my dorm room. However, it always makes me feel better about myself when I do. There's something about seeing what your body can accomplish that makes you feel powerful. Plus, exercise releases chemicals in your body called endorphins, which make you feel good. Bonus points if you exercise outdoors!
2. DIY spa
It's hard to feel good about yourself when your nails are chipped, your hair and skin are greasy, and you haven't changed your pajamas in days. But actually going to the spa is expensive and you may not be able to get an appointment until days later. It's easy to bring the spa to your dorm! First, put on some relaxing music and turn off the harsh overhead dorm lights in favor of a desk lamp. Then, put on a face mask and relax while it works its magic. After that, hop in the shower, use an exfoliating scrub to get rid of dead skin, and scrub that grease out of your hair! You could also use a pumice stone to get the dead skin off your feet. Next, get into a bathrobe and give yourself a manicure. After all that, you should feel fresh and clean and ready to take on the world (or take a nap).
3. Dress up for no reason
This is one of my favorites to do on this list. Most of us like to get dressed up, but there's not always an event to go to. Don't let that stop you! There's no dress code for class saying you have to wear a T-shirt and sweatpants every day. Put on some nice clothes and some makeup and check yourself out in the mirror. Seeing yourself looking so good will make you feel better about yourself, and the compliments you get from other people when you dress up sure don't hurt, either. Just remember, if you're going to wear heels, you have to walk around in them all day. Comfort is always more important than beauty.
4. Meditate/do yoga
Sometimes when we are feeling bad about ourselves, it's because we are so caught up in what other people might think or say about us. Or maybe it's because we are so stressed about life that we let it affect our self-image. What we need in this case is introspection. By meditating or doing yoga, we can block everyone and -thing else out and focus on our own voice. If you can, do this outside. Being outside always helps me feel better about myself. Being locked up in a dorm room all day has a way of making even fashion icons feel crummy about themselves.
These are just some ideas of things you can do to make you feel better when you're not having the best self-image day. It's important to keep in mind that you are beautiful and mean something even when you don't feel like it. And don't forget: self-care is important even during finals week!
