College is stressful. College plays with the emotions like no other experience or human does. And because college is so stressful, we cannot forget to take care of ourselves. With all the outside sources that deplete our mental and physical health which include but are not limited to: stress, lack of sleep, bad eating habits, drinking, smoking, and whatever else college students may do, we need to partake in good habits for ourselves. In the end, I promise you, your body will thank you.
Physical appearances do not mean everything. But improving one’s outward self and working inward can improve self-confidence and overall happiness. Here are some tips on how to take of yourself in college:
Take your make-up off
We all have those nights where the second we get back into the room, all we want to do is hit the sheets. Once in a while that is okay. Every day, not so much. If you wear makeup and neglect to take it off, it will clog pores and increase breakouts. There are several different products that can be used to take off makeup. Two of my favorites are micellar waters and makeup wipes. But do not forget that oils and vaseline are other easy ways to remove makeup and may be cheaper in the long run.
Healthy Eating
I am one for enjoying junk food. I encourage a cookie every now and again (or every day). I also know and sympathize with the fact that colleges serve really unhealthy food. But that junk food that we put in our bodies has to be combatted by some highly nutritious foods. So, do not be afraid to make a salad or have an apple. Give your body the nutrients it needs to fight the diseases floating around dorm hall and to give you the energy to combat the day! 
Drink Water
Drinking water is one of the best and easiest things that you can do for your body. It flushes out all the toxins in our bodies while keeping us hydrated. When we are hydrated, our skin glows and our overall complexion is brighter. Our skin clears up and our body is happy. Water also boosts the metabolism. Keep a bottle of water by your side at all times and try to drink as much as you can.
Apply Chapstick
This act is so small but so great for your body. Our lips are the most forgotten area of our body. Wearing chapstick with a medicated ointment or SPF is beneficial for the lips and will protect them against any outside sources.
Have a Girl's Night
Girl’s nights are a fun way to hang out with your friends and partake in a bunch of fun spa activities, while in pajamas. During a girl’s night, watch a movie, paint your nails, apply a hair mask, and a face mask. Relax, have a blast, and do not be afraid to pamper yourself! 
Apply Sunscreen
A huge part of taking care of yourself, is making sure that the skin is protected. UV rays are really dangerous. Sunscreen should be applied every time you may come in contact with the sun. If you wear makeup, this step is easy because SPF is in foundations and BB creams. If you don’t wear makeup, make sure to apply a light layer of sunscreen to your face. You do not want to get a sunburn!
Sleep
Sleep is an important part of life. Make sure you treat yourself with the right amount of sleep! The recommended amount of sleep for a college student is 7-8 hours!
Exercise
A little exercise never hurt anybody! Be active! Go out and do something instead of watching Netflix (I know it’s hard), but your overall being will improve with exercising once or twice a week. And for all my gym haters out there, you do not have to go to the gym to get a good workout. You can organize a game of Frisbee, go for a jog with your friends around campus, play football, or participate in any intramurals your campus has to offer. 
Shower & Brush your Teeth
Last but not least, shower and brush your teeth. Taking care of yourself can be as simple as taking a shower every night. It’s also as simple as brushing your teeth twice a day. Keeping up with good hygiene is a great way to feel confident. Plus, your body will thank you later down the line. Not showering and not brushing your teeth can cause serious health issues, not only in the present but also later in life.
Do what is best for your body. Your body is your own personal temple, take care of yourself. Most of these tips are really easy and do not require much of a lifestyle change. But no matter what tips you follow, remember that you are human and sometimes humans need a break from the chaos.
