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How to Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle as a Student

Written by: Hemlock & Oak

May 16, 2024

Time to read 3 min

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Introduction Health and Lifestyle Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle as a Student Sleep, diet and exercise Reducing Student Stress and Anxiety Staying Motivated in School Healthy Relationships

Student life can get busy, making it difficult to balance academics, extracurriculars, and personal relationships. We've put together a series of blog posts for students, with strategies to manage common obstacles and a Free Academic Planner Download to help you get organized.

Ⅰ - What is a Healthy Lifestyle?

There's no doubt that keeping up with healthy practices can be difficult as a student; but good time management can be a game-changer for students balancing a personal life with schoolwork. Here are some actionable tips to help students make the most of the limited time they have:

ⅠⅠ - Sleep, diet and exercise

Sleep	Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Try to set up a sleep schedule that allows you to go to bed and wake up at similar times of the day. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Use blackout curtains, earplugs or a white noise machine if needed. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Reduce screen exposure an hour before bedtime to improve sleep.
Diet	Eat Balanced Meals: Include a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in every meal. Meal prep: Meal planning and prep can help you stay on track and ensure that you're fueling your body with healthy foods (6). Use a planner or notebook to plan your meals, make a grocery list, and prep healthy snacks for the week. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 cups. Limit Junk Food: Opt for healthier study snacks like fruits, nuts, and yogurt instead of chips or candy.
Exercise	Incorporate Regular Physical Activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 3-4 days a week. This could be walking, running, or a workout class. Join a Fitness Club or Class: Organized physical activities can provide structure and motivation. Stretch Regularly: Incorporate stretching or yoga into your routine to improve flexibility and reduce stress.

Tools to Reduce Stress and Anxiety

Plan Ahead

Take a moment before the week starts: While it's impossible to create the perfect schedule, putting in the time to review your week will help you feel more in control and focused.
Schedule Study Sessions and Breaks: Plan your study time in blocks with short breaks in between to maintain focus and prevent burnout.
Prioritize Tasks: List tasks in order of importance and tackle the most critical ones first.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Meditation: Spend a few minutes each day practicing mindfulness meditation to reduce anxiety.

Deep Breathing Exercises: Use deep breathing techniques during stressful moments to calm your mind.

Avoid Negative Self-Talk

Practice Positive Affirmations: Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations to boost self-worth.

Reflect on Achievements: Keep a journal of your accomplishments to remind yourself of your strengths and progress.

Time Blocking is an Effective Tool for Managing Time

Staying Motivated in School

When there's too much on your plate, it can sometimes be tempting to throw it all away. This is usually a sign of burnout and overwhelm, and there are some ways to counter this:

Set Goals

Setting Goals Strategically: Making realistic and specific goals allows you to keep up with them. Try breaking down large goals into smaller, manageable steps.

Track Progress: Use a journal or app to monitor your progress and celebrate small wins. Regularly review and adjust your plans to stay motivated and on track.

Use Time Management Strategies

Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this cycle four times, then take a longer break.

Time Blocking: Allocate specific times for different activities throughout your day to ensure a balanced schedule.

Prioritize your activities: Organize your tasks into what needs to get done first, and what can realistically be completed in your day.

Avoid Burnout

Take Regular Breaks: Ensure you have time for relaxation and hobbies.

Seek Help When Needed: Don't hesitate to ask for help from teachers, friends, or counselors if you're feeling overwhelmed.

Healthy Relationships

As a student, maintaining supportive relationships is important for your mental health; and connecting with people who care about you helps foster positive environments that contribute to your wellbeing. Here are some ways that can help you nurture healthy relationships:

Communicate Openly

Share Your Feelings: Be honest with friends and family about how you're feeling.

Listen Actively: Pay attention to others' feelings and offer support when needed.

Build Support Networks

Join Clubs or Groups: Participate in student organizations or clubs that interest you to meet like-minded people.

Stay Connected: Regularly check in with friends and family, even if it's just a quick text or call.

Set Boundaries

Protect Your Time: Learn to say no to activities or people that drain your energy or take time away from important tasks.

Respect Others' Boundaries: Be mindful of others' needs and boundaries in your interactions.