10 Ways to Practice Self Care After Returning to Campus

While the return to campus has been a joyful and exuberant experience for many, for some, the transition back to in-person learning has felt strange or even uncomfortable after an entire year spent learning from our beds. (Don’t lie–we all went to class in pajamas at least once!) Many people, if not most, may have a hard time getting used to social interactions for seven hours a day. In order to make sure that you don’t burn out, it’s important to take care of yourself. Here are 10 easy, healthy tips for self-care in the wake of our return to campus:

1. Take a bath or shower. Taking a bath or shower can be so relaxing. You can play soothing music, light your favorite candles, and just take the moment to relax and destress. 
2. Sleep! Yeah, we all sleep at night. But taking a quick nap after school before you start your homework is so nice. It helps recharge your brain and helps you stay focused for longer when it’s finally time to get back to work. 
3. Go outside and stargaze or look at the sunset. I’m definitely biased because I love astronomy, but stargazing at night can be soothing. Mapping out constellations or even making up your own can be really fun! Either way, it’s good to go outside and enjoy a breath of fresh air.
4. Meditate. You guys know the drill–we do this every Morning Meeting for a reason, after all! Meditating and taking a moment to be mindful helps to reset your brain and get you relaxed. 
5. Put your phone on Do Not Disturb. Look, I know it’s a cliche, and a lot of people say it, but it truly is nice to take a break from social media and from seeing messages constantly pop up on your screen. It also helps with focusing on homework or anything else you want to get done. 
6. Stay hydrated! Staying hydrated is crucial to having a clear mind and to being relaxed. You can spice things up by adding lemons or different fruits to your water too!
7. Bake something. Cookies, cupcakes, anything! Baking is a nice way to do something that isn’t homework or school related. Also, you get to have a yummy snack once you’re done!
8. Start a new hobby! Whether it be painting or playing an instrument, it’s refreshing to start something new. The best part is that it can be whatever you want. The world is your oyster!
9. Watch a movie! Movie nights are the best. It’s so nice to just sit back, relax, and watch your favorite film with a bowl of popcorn.
10. Listen to your favorite music. This is probably one of the easiest ways to wind down. Just pop in your earphones and listen to music you like, whether it be something you jam to or something you fall asleep to. Either way, it’s nice to take a break from what’s going on around you and just vibe with your favorite playlist.

It can be difficult to try to maintain your mental well-being while being caught up in school, but don’t forget to take care of yourself! It’s crucial to make sure that your mind and body are healthy during stressful times. The more you take care of yourself, the easier it’ll be to push through tough moments. You got this!