While you’re at uni, you’re definitely going to be busy. Managing deadlines, work, bills and having a social life, among other things, is no easy task. On top of all that, you need to take care of both your physical and mental health. So, here are some tips on how to stay healthy when busy at uni.
Walk wherever you can
It sounds simple, but it really does help. Rather than driving or taking public transport, walking can be a great option to stay healthy when busy. Obviously within reason, as you don’t want to be walking to campus in the pouring rain for two hours. However, making the conscious choice to walk somewhere is great for when you don’t have time to go to the gym, as you’re already getting a workout in without really trying. It’s a cheaper option, more environmentally friendly and it’s good for you. What more could you want?
Meal Prep
Another useful option. Taking some time out of your weekend to prepare some healthy meals will definitely save you time later in the week as you already have meals ready. This can be both for lunch, which you can take into uni and stops you from buying food on campus, and dinner, so after a long day of lectures and other activities, your food is ready and waiting for you.
Check out this guide from BBC Good Food with some healthy student meals to help you get started.
Multivitamins
Yes, vitamins. While we as uni students are not known for having particularly healthy meals (you and I know we’ve all had one too many pizza takeouts), vitamins are a simple and very quick option to get some healthy nutrients into your body. Especially when you’re busy, it will only take a couple of seconds at most. If you don’t have time for breakfast in the morning, with vitamins you will at least get something healthy in your system before you start your day.
Get Enough Sleep
It’s very important to get enough sleep each and every night to stay healthy when busy. Getting a good amount of sleep is important for your body as it allows you to rest and recharge, and getting at least 7 hours of sleep at night can help you to focus better in your classes. Those long nights at the library, while you may get your work done, will only make you more tired for the next day and keep that cycle going. Equally, coming back from a long night out at 5 am may be fun, but you will definitely regret it during that 9 am seminar.
Eat 3 Meals A Day:
Likewise, eating 3 meals a day is critical for your health. Even when you’re busy, you should make sure you eat at least 3 times a day. Even if you don’t feel like you have time to do so, setting aside 10-15 minutes for each meal can give you a break from the hustle of everyday life, giving you a moment to breathe, relax and give your body some nutrients before moving on with the rest of your day. As I mentioned earlier, meal prepping and meal planning will help you to save time as you know exactly what you’re going to eat and when you’re going to have it.
So, there you have it. University is undoubtedly one of the busiest times in your life, but it can also be one of the most exciting. Making sure you look after your health, both physical and mental, throughout your studies is very important. If you feel like you’re ever struggling, turn to your family, friends or consider seeking professional help. Remember, there is always someone who is looking out for you.
If you are struggling, here are some places where you can get mental health advice in the UK.
A student from University of Nottingham.
