If you know me, you would know I’m sick for a huge chunk of the semester either with a cough or a cold or the sniffles…Basically, I never catch a break.

I believe I’ve mastered the tips and tricks to a “night in” and how to pamper yourself to get your MOJO back! After a long week of classes and tests, these methods have helped me unwind and enjoy “me time”.

Even if you aren’t sick or feeling under the weather, I’ve realized alone time in college is necessary, so take some time for yourself, relax, and enjoy.

1. Your environment has to give off GOOD VIBES

There’s nothing worse than trying to unwind with a messy room. Make sure your room is tidy, your desk is clean, your laundry is put away, and your twinkly lights are on!! Turn off the rest of your lights and I promise the dimness of the lights hanging over your bed will give the room the coziest feel! I know lighting candles can be a fire hazard but I use those fake candles that turn on with a battery and it gives the room the same chill vibes (you have to do what you have to do lol).

2. Shower!

I know this may seem obvious but a good hot shower can really put you in such a better headspace. Make sure you moisturize after the shower- smooth, soft, and good smelling skin will make you feel extra relaxed and clean.

3. Comfy PJ’s

Get out your favorite loungewear or PJ’s, fuzzy socks or slippers, and get ready for a relaxing night.

4. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb

I hate to say it but we are addicted to our phones. All of us, as a generation, we are obsessed and it’s awful and we need to learn when to detach and log off. This is a perfect time to practice this habit and become comfortable with silence and with yourself. You’ll be surprised how amazing it is to not check your phone every two seconds and to just let go…whatever it is IT CAN WAIT UNTIL TOMORROW!!

5. Journal or write down your goals

I know this may sound dumb, but I’ve done it and I really recommend it if you are trying to get the most out of your alone time. It’s sometimes scary being alone with your thoughts and actually thinking and processing your day. I think that’s why we as humans are always consumed by our phones and being around people because it’s uncomfortable being alone. The more normal we make it the less uncomfortable it will be! Reflect on your week and think about how you can be better next week, what you can do differently and how you can learn from the mistakes you made. Write down any goals or to do lists and keep it on your bedside so you can constantly refer to it.

6. FACE MASK!!

I am addicted to face masks and have a huge collection of them just waiting to be used. With a clean face fresh out of the shower, a face mask is perfect because you can just sit and listen to music while it works its magic on your skin! There are a million different face masks available at Target, CVS, even grocery stores! They are super inexpensive and worth it for those relaxing nights.

7. Netflix & Tea

Watching a movie or show to unwind is always a good idea. What’s better than the breakfast club and a hot beverage? Literally nothing. My favorite tea recipe is either Earl Grey tea or Mint Green tea with lots of honey and fresh lemon!! I swear this tea is good for the soul and especially good for when you aren’t feeling well. It cures my colds and coughs and helps me sleep through the night.

My top Netflix movie recommendations for a night in:

1. The Breakfast Club
2. 13 Going on 30
3. Clueless
4. A Walk to Remember
5. Begin Again
6. Grease
7. Mean Girls
8. Forest Gump

8. Sleep Early

It’s okay to binge watch, but remember you need your beauty sleep. Go to bed at a reasonable time and I promise you’ll wake up refreshed, energized, and excited to start the day.