Big things on the horizon – August
Establishing Healthy Routines as College Life Gets Busier
Hello everyone! It's lovely to see the college so full and courses starting in the next few weeks.
I would like to introduce myself as the Vice President Welfare and discuss some important tips for mental health and wellbeing.
As August comes to an end and summer winds down, many students are preparing to return to student life and get back into the swing of things at Edinburgh College.
Whether you are starting this year or a returning student, the transition from summer relaxation to the fast-paced environment of college can be a bit challenging. Between classes, extracurricular activities, social commitments, and work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
But don’t worry – establishing healthy routines early on can help you maintain your well-being and ensure you thrive both academically and personally throughout the year.
Here are three essential tips for setting a healthy routine as life gets busier this semester.
1. Don't cheat on Sleep
Sleep is often the first thing to go in a busy college schedule. However, getting enough sleep is crucial for cognitive function, memory, and overall health. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults aged 18-25 should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Here are some tips to help improve your sleep routine:
- Create a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up naturally.
- Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Do calming activities before bed, like reading, taking a warm shower, or practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
- Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light from phones, tablets, and computers can interfere with your body’s natural sleep cycle. Try to avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime.
2. Be a Master at Time Management
Good time management is key to balancing academic responsibilities with personal life. Poor time management can lead to stress, burnout, and reduced productivity. Here are some strategies to help you stay on top of your schedule:
- Use a Planner or Digital Calendar: Keeping track of your classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities in a planner or digital calendar can help you stay organized and ensure you meet all your commitments. You can also check any live changes at Edinburgh College Live Link.
- Break Tasks into Smaller Chunks: Big tasks can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, more manageable steps. This approach makes it easier to tackle assignments and helps you stay focused. Mind mapping could be a useful tool for you.
- Set Priorities and Learn to Say No: Remember, you can’t do everything. Prioritize tasks that are most important or have the closest deadlines and learn to say no to extra commitments when your schedule is already full.
3. Fuel your body for Busy Days
Eating a balanced diet is essential for keeping your energy levels up and helping your brain function, especially when you’re on the go. Here’s how to make healthy eating a part of your routine:
- Plan Your Meals Ahead: Try meal prepping for the week, or at least planning out your meals in advance to avoid unhealthy last-minute food choices. Pack healthy snacks like fruits, nuts, or yogurt to keep you going between classes.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water throughout the day is crucial for maintaining energy and concentration. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and aim to drink at least eight glasses of water per day.
- Balance Your Plate: Include a variety of foods in your meals, making sure you have a mix of lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. This balanced approach provides sustained energy and helps keep you focused throughout the day. We are offering food staples at each of the Edinburgh campus sites. To further support your efforts to eat healthily, we’ll be releasing some helpful videos in the coming months!
As you gear up to head back to college this August, remember that creating healthy routines is a great way to stay on top of a busy schedule and keep yourself feeling good. Make sure to prioritize sleep, manage your time wisely, and keep up with balanced nutrition to enjoy a successful and fulfilling college experience. By making small, positive changes to your daily habits, you'll be setting yourself up for both academic success and personal growth in the year.
See you next week for freshers where everything will kick off
You've got this!
Sukinder
Vice President Welfare