Self-care: We hear it everywhere, but no one truly knows what it means.

The truth of the matter is that self-care doesn't have a complicated definition. There is no correct way to practice self-care.

Many people think that self-care is taking one day to relax with some candles and face masks, but that isn't always true. Sometimes, especially when you're a busy college student, self-care is just sitting down and eating.

Eating is required to function properly. As simple and essential as eating meals seems to be, it can be tempting to skip lunch in order to study for a midterm. Here's my advice to you: Don't do it.

I've skipped meals due to a busy schedule. It didn't make me get more done. In fact, it did the opposite. I couldn't focus because I was so hungry. I actually had to leave class because I felt so sick. Abandoning your basic needs in order to be 'more productive' is unhealthy. In a culture driven by productivity, it is something we have to watch out for.

If you find yourself shaking from weakness or feeling especially irritated, think about the last time you ate a real meal. No, iced coffee doesn't count. If you don't nourish your body, how do you expect yourself to perform well?

Sometimes life can be nonstop, but it's important to remember the importance of self-care. If you've been out and about since your 8 a.m. class, ask yourself, "When was the last time I ate?"

Sitting down to eat might seem impossible when you have a busy schedule, but it is perfectly okay to be five minutes late to a class to eat. Maybe even talk to your professor and explain your situation. Ask if you can eat in class. These little things matter.

Put your health first. You are a priority.