We have made the decision to start our adult lives by continuing our education in college, but us students are also known for our poor decision making. We eat a lot of junk food, gain weight, and never sleep. But these first few years of adulthood could be used to establish some healthy habits that would not only improve your life as a student, but launch a routine you are more likely to keep for the rest of your life.
Eating Healthy
Most college students are eating on a budget and they have very little time to cook—if they have the facilities to cook at all. But whether you are living in a dorm or in your parents’ house, there are some key choices you should make. Try to avoid fast food. There is nothing wrong with the occasional burger on the go, but it is so easy to slip into the habit of constantly buying your meals from a speaker box. Eating fast-food can leave you lacking beneficial vitamins and may provide way more fat and sugar then you need in your diet. I know it takes time and I know can be a bit more expensive, but your body will thank you if you eat a homecooked meal.
Exercise
I’m sure you have heard this one a thousand times, but going to the gym doesn’t have to take a long time. Regular exercise has been shown to not only give you more energy, but it also reduces stress. And we all could use a little more energy and a little less stress. Most colleges also provide a gym on campus as a part of your tuition. You’re already paying for it, so use it. If you don’t think jogging or lifting weights is fun, sign up for a class. Learning a new sport or type of dance is great exercise and you could meet a lot of new people in the process.
Stay in Touch with Old Friends
It is perfectly natural to grow apart from old friends, especially after you leave high school, but if there are people in your life who are close to you don’t blow them off to hang out with new friends. Make time for old relationships. It’s easy to get caught up in new groups and forget all about your old friends, but when times get tough, it’s the people you have known for a long time that stand by you. This isn’t meant to discourage you from meeting new people, just consider setting aside the occasional Friday night to catch up with old buddies.
