I believe one of the most important things in the world is genuinely and wholeheartedly taking care of yourself before anything or anyone else. I’ve experienced a great struggle with this during my young adult life as I’m sure plenty of other people have as well. The key is to find things that make you feel happy, healthy, balanced, and full. Whether that’s listening to your favorite artist, having a solo dance party in your room or in front of the mirror, or hanging out with the people you enjoy most. Being in college under a tremendous amount of stress and pressure, every student should develop their own personal self-care routine and try their best to practice it at least once a week. It will take time to get used to doing things for yourself especially if you aren’t used to it. Faking it until you make it is the easiest way to start the process of doing what’s best for you and your mental, spiritual, and physical health.

Here are some of the things I do during the week to keep my sanity and remain stable.

 

1. Take a walk.

When I feel myself becoming overwhelmed with life and fed up with being in the same location everyday (aka my room) I go explore the area I’m in. This can help lead you to new places you didn’t know about before such as parks, restaurants, shop, and even transportation stops.

2. Sit and enjoy nature.

Stopping and really taking in the world around you is very humbling as you realize you play such a small part on this beautiful earth. The sky, no matter what time of day, is my favorite thing and I enjoy watching the clouds move and the sky turn into different shades of purple, pink, orange, and blue.

3. Listen to calm/relaxing music.

Turn on some music that makes you feel safe, free,  and relaxed. Go to YouTube and search for rain sounds (my personal favorite) or meditation music so you can take a short break from your life.

4. Fix yourself a cup of tea.

Chamomile tea, green tea, black mango tea, raspberry tea. Choose your preference and add some honey to improve the taste!

5. Go get a manicure or pedicure!

Now…we all know how great it feels to get your nails and feet done. Most women and some men feel their best when they are both taken care of. There’s so many options and designs to choose from and it allows you another way to freely express yourself.

6. Read a book.

I recommend I Don’t Belong to Youby Keke Palmer to all young women out there. It’s a very inspiring book and has given me a new outlook on like as I keep going back to it. Grab a mystery novel or a poetry book. Whatever makes you feel the best.

7. Smile more often!!

At time life can seem really rough and like it can get no better than it is at the moment. However, take the time out to list and appreciate the things you do have in your life and experiences or people you were able to enjoy. Find a positive for every negative thought you have.

8. Develop a skin routine.

You know that saying, “when you look good, you feel good”? Trust me when I say it’s true. Having great skin has become important to more people and is how they feel their best. Wash your face twice a day, find a mask or two that works for you, buy some moisture, and create a regimen that works for your individual skin.

9. Clean your room (or take a nap)

From the creases in the shower to the baseboards in the bedroom, clean up and down that room!! It is your sacred place and where you lay your head every night. Why wouldn’t you want it to look pleasing and peaceful every time you come back to it? Have friends help you and make it a hang out! Create a playlist or find one you like to listen to while you clean.

10. EAT GOOD FOOD

Every now and then you should treat yourself to your favorite meals and restaurants. It’s okay to go sit alone in a booth somewhere and enjoy your own company. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad for doing something for yourself. Try a new place people have been raving about or search and find your own secret spot!