As a new semester rolls around, it is time to get back to our school routine, and while this fresh start is exciting, it can also bring up other negative feelings such as stress and anxiety.
Below are some tips for achieving a great semester to better you physically and mentally.
1) Write out your schedule:
Staying organized is the key to success in University, and when organized, you will be less stressed. Writing out your schedule will help you grasp what components you need for each class and what you need to do in and out of class each day.
2) Focus on the things that you can control:
There are many factors that we cannot control in the world right now, and the many unknowns of the pandemic can add a lot of added stress on each of us. Keeping in mind what we can control during this time will help ground us all. It is hard not to focus on the bad and get overwhelmed by the news and the media, but focusing on what we can control, like our everyday life, health, and happiness, will help us get one step closer to better mental health.
Keep your head up. I know this is a tough one for us all.
3) When back on campus, check out your classes beforehand:
Taking a walk around campus and finding each of your classes before classes begin is also helpful for lowering your first week of class stress. Writing out your schedule and knowing where your classes are located will allow you to get to class on time and not worry about missing necessary class time and running around campus.
4) Make time for things that bring you joy:
Whether you are doing school online or in person, it is always essential to make time for yourself! It can be easy to put the school at the center of what is important to you, and while that is great, it is vital to take care of yourself and do things that make you happy. When looking back at your University years, you want to see a balance of academics and fun.
Introducing at least 30 minutes of something that you enjoy into your everyday life will help guide you to a balanced routine: sports, exercise, reading, self-care, spending time with friends, singing, dancing, etc.
5) Stick to a routine:
Having both an academic and personal routine in your life can help you visualize balance and productivity in your schooling. Implementing a routine to your day can improve your sense of control and help you to feel secure and comfortable during stressful times.
6) Take care of yourself!!:
Mental wellbeing doesn’t have to be complicated. Self-care can be as simple as showering, taking a walk, eating a good meal, etc. Taking care of yourself while in University is very important, and I know we can forget to take care of ourselves when school gets hectic and we get stressed, but it is vital to take care of your physical and mental wellbeing.
Wishing you all a healthy, and happy semester!
The views expressed in this blog are my own, and do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of the University of Victoria. I monitor posts and comments to ensure all content complies with the University of Victoria Guidelines on Blogging.
The views expressed in this blog are my own, and do not necessarily reflect the policies or views of the University of Victoria. I monitor posts and comments to ensure all content complies with the University of Victoria Guidelines on Blogging.