Some students manage to take good care of their health during the school year, but if you are like me, college is a time of Mountain Dew fueled late night studying, waves of stress, and very little time or energy for exercise. This summer can be a time to reset the clock if you found yourself falling into bad health habits this past year.
You will probably not find yourself with tons of papers and projects due all on the same day this summer or needing to attend student organization meetings that start at 10pm. This summer you hopeully have the ability to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day and at reasonable hours. The extra rest and the lower stress level can help you feel better right away.
Since you aren’t relaint upon the cafeteria or vending machines for your meals, you can take control of your food intake this summer and aim for more healthy options and less processed and fast foods. You may even have a little extra time to explore a local farmer’s market for some fresh produce or to try your hand at a new healthy recipe. Maybe you have the luxury of taking in some good home cooking this summer too.
With the nice weather and later sunsets, there is no better time of year for getting outside for some fresh air and exercise. Hop on your bike or start partnering with a friend or family member for regular workouts. If you are working, perhaps you can bike or walk to work. Many park districts also offer summer rec leagues such as softball or soccer. Rec teams are often looking for young people with stamina and energy.
Summer is also a good time for reading an inspirational book or joining a small group for mental or spiritual renewal. The school year probably didn’t afford you much time for reflection and “checking in with you.” This summer can be a great time to think more deeply about your values, priorities, where you have been and where you want to go from here.
Be thinking of the area of your health when you are making your summer goals. Doing so will be an invetsment that will affect all of your other summer goals and your future as well.