College life can feel like a constant juggling act—between classes, work, social commitments, and everything in between, it's easy to let your own well-being fall to the bottom of your priority list. But self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity, especially when you’re managing stress. The good news? You don’t need to carve out huge chunks of time or have a perfect routine. These small, simple self-care practices can help you recharge and keep your stress levels in check.
1. Get Moving (Even for 10 Minutes)
You don’t need to hit the gym for hours. Even just 10 minutes of movement—whether it’s a quick walk around campus, a yoga session in your dorm, or dancing in your room—can boost your mood. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural stress relievers.
If you’re pressed for time, try setting a timer and doing some stretches or a few jumping jacks in between study breaks. Apps like 7 Minute Workout can guide you through quick sessions that fit easily into a busy schedule.
2. Prioritize Sleep
We’ve all pulled those late-night study sessions, but regular sleep deprivation takes a serious toll on your mood, energy, and ability to focus. Make a habit of getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep when you can. Trust me, those few extra hours of sleep will make you far more productive (and less stressed) than trying to run on empty.
Pro tip: Set a sleep schedule. Try going to bed and waking up around the same time each day—even on weekends.
3. Take a Mindful Break
Mindfulness doesn’t have to be complicated. Even just taking five minutes to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and clear your mind can make a huge difference. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer short guided meditations you can do anywhere—whether it’s a study room, your dorm, or even between classes.
If meditation isn’t your thing, consider other mindful activities like journaling, coloring, or listening to calming music. These small moments of relaxation can help you reset.
4. Unplug for a Bit
Social media and constant notifications can add to your stress without you even realizing it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try putting your phone on “Do Not Disturb” or even turning it off for a while. Give yourself permission to unplug from the constant stream of information and focus on what’s right in front of you.
Pro tip: Consider setting a time limit for social media apps. Many phones have features that help you track how long you’re spending on apps like Instagram or TikTok.
5. Snack Smart
What you eat plays a big role in how you feel. When you're stressed, it’s tempting to reach for junk food, but that only adds to the problem. Keep easy, healthy snacks around like fruit, nuts, or granola bars. These will give you steady energy and help you avoid those sugar crashes that leave you feeling drained.
Plus, staying hydrated is key—make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a water bottle with you as a reminder to sip regularly.
6. Connect with Friends (Even for a Quick Chat)
You don’t have to be at every party or social event to stay connected. Sometimes, a quick chat with a friend can lift your spirits and reduce stress. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, shoot a text or plan a short coffee break with someone close to you. Even small moments of connection can make a big difference in how you feel.
Remember, quality matters more than quantity when it comes to social interactions. Don’t feel pressured to be social 24/7—just focus on the connections that help you feel supported.
7. Create a Relaxing Study Space
Your environment can either add to your stress or help reduce it. Make your study space somewhere you actually want to be. Declutter your desk, add some personal touches like photos or plants, and keep things organized so that studying feels less like a chore.
Try playing calming background music or nature sounds while you study to help you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed. Spotify and YouTube have tons of playlists dedicated to study-friendly music.
8. Ask for Help When You Need It
This is a big one. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by schoolwork, stress, or anything else, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s reaching out to a professor, a counselor, or just talking to a friend, there’s no shame in admitting you need support.
Many colleges offer free or low-cost mental health services, so check out what’s available on your campus. Talking things through with someone can help you feel less alone and provide you with tools to manage stress better.
Final Thoughts
Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or expensive. It’s about making small, intentional choices that help you feel good and keep your stress levels manageable. Whether it’s taking a quick walk, getting more sleep, or unplugging for a bit, these easy self-care tips can make a big difference in your daily life as a student.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. The better you feel, the more energy and focus you’ll have to take on everything college throws at you.
Attiya Awadallah, LCAT, ATR-BC, is a licensed psychotherapist and creative arts therapist who specializes in working with young adults navigating the challenges of school, career, and life transitions. At Lenora: Art Therapy and Counseling, Attiya helps clients find balance, manage stress, and build healthy coping strategies to thrive in their personal and professional lives.
If you’re interested in learning more about therapy services or booking a session, visit www.lenoratherapy.com or contact Attiya directly at lenoratherapy@gmail.com
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