Life often feels like a juggling act. Although everyone has unique college experiences, everyone can relate to that panicky feeling in the pit of your stomach when you have a paper to write, finals to study for, lab to go to, a job to (at the very least) show up to and a social life to maintain. And then there is the larger pressure to perform; to be the very best and excel in both academics and extracurriculars all in vague hope for a future that doesn't look like the retail job you've had since high school. These pressures are no stranger to most and I have a hunch that they are not going to dissipate anytime soon.
Recently, as I was killing time scrolling through Facebook, I came across an old friend who had been awarded for their contribution to their university. Although this was most definitely well earned, I couldn't help but feel the tinge of jealousy and guilt. This past semester I was not out in the world making a difference or even working a job. I was not studying as hard as my nursing peers, in fact I wasn't studying at all- I was in rehab. And while there, I was spending my spare time in pajamas coloring mandalas instead of in scrubs learning how to take care of a patient.
It's easy to get sucked into the culturally accepted notion that our value lies in our ability to drive ourselves into the ground. This is not to say that hard work is discredited. But rather, it is important to realize that unless we care for ourselves we cannot pursue anything at our full potential. Despite what that panicky feeling at the pit of your stomach is telling you, you have permission to slow down. You deserve to practice self care. Taking time to listen to what you and your body needs is in no way selfish, but instead it allows you to then live your life in wholeness and access that part of yourself that desires to accomplish things.
When the concept of self care was first presented to me, I thought it to be incredibly cheesy and a waste of my time. But after growing to understand it's importance, I want to share with you some acts of self care that I've warmed up to and have benefited from. I am not claiming to be the queen of self care, but rather I have recognized the need for it in my life and want to share this realization with you. Feel free to take what serves you and leave what doesn't. Make it your own. Throw out my list and make another one that fits your interests (I have a friend who hates deep breathing and prefers listening to metal). But what I urge to convey to you is that you have permission to slow down, take a breath, and take care of yourself.
1. Deep breathing
Deep breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system and has anxiety reducing effects. There are some great apps out there with breathing exercises, but it's also super simple to do on your own. And no one is going to look at you weird or even notice if you practice this in public.
2. Get outdoors
Take a walk, go for a hike, swim, run, or even just find a nice place to sit. UVM seems to be very into hammocking, and although I have yet to purchase a hammock, I respect that. Anything that gives you some fresh air is a good idea. Plus, it never hurts to take a break from the library or your dorm room.
3. Embrace your cravings
This one is so simple yet we tend to overthink it- if some mac n cheese would make you happy, eat some mac n cheese. If you can't stop dreaming about the Americone Dream, hit up Ben and Jerry's. Listen to what your body is asking for and let yourself have that.
4. Take a nap
Naps have magical properties. If you're so concerned that you'll fall asleep and wake up two days later, just set an alarm (or a few). That headache you have is probably your brain screaming for a break.
5. Move
For me, this means yoga. I can't always make a class, and have discovered that there's so much offered online. Also feel free to create your own practice, taking from classes you've done in the past. There's no "correct" way to practice yoga- as an instructor recently told me: "It's only wrong if it hurts or if you're not having fun." I highly suggest restorative yoga for those who are more into relaxation than movement. Some restorative classes even incorporate aromatherapy and massage.
6. Get creative
Play guitar, color, write, paint, etc. You don't have to be "good," you just have to enjoy it. If you want to be intentional about it, let yourself be creative and then reflect on it. I may have sat in one too many expressive therapy groups, but don't knock it until you try it.
7. Give back
There's something about giving back and helping others that minimizes stress and lets you get outside of yourself. Find a way to get involved in your community or campus; more than likely there are many opportunities to explore.
8. Go to that thing you "don't have time for"
You want to go to X but tell yourself you have to work instead. But what if you did some planning so that you could get your work done and allow yourself to take a break to do what you want? This doesn't work for every situation, but maybe it applies more than you'd think.
9. Drink some tea
A cup of tea can go a long way, and for all of my Burlington homies out there we have Teavana and David's Tea right in our backyard.
10. Zone out
Put on some music. Watch some Netflix. Do something while at the same time allowing yourself to do nothing. Recharging is important.
Ready, set, SELF CARE.
