4 Back-to-school well-being tips for Sun Devils
Navigating changes due to the start of the new school year? Adjusting to new routines, people and places takes planning, patience and persistence. Stay healthy during this transitional period and throughout the school year with a simple approach to wellness.
“Prioritizing your health when adjusting to a new environment can improve your success,” Michael Farrell, wellness supervisor and ASU biology graduate student, said. “Focusing on our health and wellness as students can improve our cognitive abilities, help us manage our stress better and improve our overall productivity. For students struggling, sticking to a manageable routine, setting goals for yourself and hanging out with friends can create a balance between well-being and academics.”
During this busy and often stressful time, it’s important for Sun Devils to prioritize their health and find that necessary balance. Follow these four tips to center wellness in your life:
1. GET ENOUGH SLEEP
Sleep needs differ among individuals and change with a variety of factors including age, mental and physical health, occupation, learning and stress.
“Sleep is important!” Farrell said. “Not getting sleep can cause memory problems, as well as chronic problems, such as high blood pressure, obesity and depression. Getting around seven to nine hours of sleep can vastly improve your mood and your health.”
Bedtime routines, consistent bedtime and wake-up times, limiting caffeine, exposure to sunlight and physical activity contribute to restful sleep.
2. NOURISH YOUR BRAINPOWER
Improve memory, enhance concentration and increase energy by consuming food and drinks that fuel the mind and body.
“Although ASU has many food options (M.U., residence hall cafeterias, etc.), eating unhealthy food and drinking soda all the time can take a toll on your health and outlook on college,” Farrell said. “Having a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins and healthy fats and hydrating constantly—because this is Arizona—can optimize your physical and cognitive functions.”
Plan and prepare a weekly menu, eat regular meals and snacks, drink enough water to stay hydrated, and enjoy more fruits and vegetables to maximize learning, work and play.
3. BREAK A SWEAT
Increase energy, reduce stress and improve strength and endurance with weekly physical activity.
ASU offers many ways for Sun Devils to break a sweat, students can walk, stretch, cycle, dance, garden, hike or swim. Take breaks from school and work, spend time with others and have fun.
4. CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS
Supportive relationships improve physical and mental health, promote resilience and enhance academic, personal and professional success.
“Staying in touch with family and friends provides a stable foundation for you as you adjust to the changes and challenges of college lifestyle,” Farrell said. “Your family loves you and your friends want to hang out with you, so value those relationships because they are important for your success at college.”
Gather together for a walk, share a meal, play a game, complete chores or read a book out loud to boost happiness, reduce stress and experience social emotional well-being.
Learn more about sleep, brain health, nutrition, physical activity and healthy relationships by visiting wellness.asu.edu.
