This Tuesday, I have a test in my physiology class. Yes, I have studied for it (I am actually a responsible college student). This test is going to cover about five chapters’ worth of material, ranging from cell structure to cell metabolism functions. It’s crazy because one would think that a cell is so small that it should not be complicated—wrong. It turns out that a cell has over 7,000 different chemical reactions. A majority of these reactions are modes of maintaining a cell’s equilibrium, also known as homeostasis.
Homeostasis refers to a state in which an organism is in balance. Humans must be homeostatic in order to live because our body must maintain a certain stability of ratios, like the amount of water circulating in the body.
However, aside from the physiological use of the word “homeostasis,” I believe the word has other meanings that apply to us.
We, as homeostatic human beings, tend to reside in our comfort zones. We find a routine, stick with it, and do nothing else. We are not being as adventurous as we should be. We are “sticking to the status quo” (thanks, High School Musical).
Personally, when I came to college, I was tired of doing the same tasks each day; I had the same friends, I had lived in the same area since I was one year old, I was going to the same high school, and I was overall living a life so predictable that I could wear a blindfold every day and go through the same motions without any hesitation. It was safe to say that I was ready for change.
At UAB, I purposely do things I am uncomfortable doing. I joined a sorority not knowing anyone. I go to the gym nearly every day and I use all of the machines as if I know exactly what I’m doing. I try new workout classes; I have already tried Zumba, Spin, Pound (using drum sticks to drum on the ground), Step, and Pilates. I write for our student newspaper and talk to students and faculty that I wouldn’t normally have the chance to talk to. Honestly, the list goes on and on.
As a sophomore in college right now, I can say that I am unequilibrated. I try my best to do things that April Oberman wouldn’t normally do. But, I also try to stick to a routine that benefits my success in my classes. The harmonious balance truly does not exist—one can never be a complete homeostatic individual as far as physical, emotional, spiritual, financial, and mental life goes. We will try, though.
I realize how nerdy I sound—I am writing an article based off of what I’ve learned from a class. But hey, at least you can tell that I’ve been studying. If anything, take this away from my nerdy article: be you, but do non-you things, too.
