1. Proper sleep
    a. Proper sleep is my #1 piece of advice. Without quality sleep everything else becomes a struggle. Your energy is drained, hunger cues and cravings are off, and your brain will be half asleep. Set a clear sleep schedule and follow a night routine. Everyone needs different hours of sleep, so while I cannot tell you how much to sleep, I encourage you to ensure that whatever hours you sleep are good quality ones.

  2. Balance diet
    a. Our bodies need proper nutrition to support our immune system and repair cell damage caused by stress. For example, foods rich in healthy fats like fatty fish, nuts and seeds, and seaweed can help regulate stress hormones. Fast food may be convenient but lacks many important nutrients making you feel tired and less motivated. Eating balanced, whole foods will fuel your body and support recovery during stressful times.

  3. Physical activity
    a. This is about movement. Whatever physical activity you choose, enjoy and motivate you to do it frequently is perfect. As students, we spend too much time sitting, which contributes to feeling tired and decreases productivity. Physical activity releases chemicals that improve moods by reducing stress and anxiety and even help us with better sleep. Besides incorporating a daily workout into your schedule, I encourage you to take breaks to walk and stretch throughout the day, especially if you have been sitting for a long time.

  4. Me and me time
    a. This is where you can try new hobbies, watch a movie, stare at the ceiling, or read your favorite book. There must be times for you to be by yourself to recharge, to cry, to laugh and do whatever you need to come back stronger. Making time for you is not something you must earn but something you deserve for trying your best each day so don’t be afraid to make time to take care of yourself.

  5. Acknowledge your achievements
    a. During stressful times, it is easy to forget how much you have accomplished. I have found that writing down my recent achievements helps me regain perspective and reminds me I have what it takes to succeed. When you feel overwhelmed, I encourage you to look back at your achievements and acknowledge your progress. Recognizing these achievements will ground you and remind you can overcome any challenge ahead.

  6. Check up with friends and family often.
    a. Talking about my problems and worries out loud helps me see things clearer. I realize that they are not as big as I thought and finding a solution becomes easier. People that care about you help you remind yourself of your strengths and virtues, which we sometimes forget. Hearing other perspectives become essential because we tend to be hardest on ourselves, but having someone listen makes us feel supported and assured.