Published: Monday, 15 November 2021
Written by Presley Dalman, Beach Balance Lead
As we enter the “-ber” months, the most wonderful time of the year gets closer, but for students, it can also be the most stressful time of the year. With midterm exams occurring just before Thanksgiving, to final exams approaching soon after, taking time for self-care can seem unproductive when there are so many other items on our to-do lists. However, it is scientifically proven that academic success is heavily influenced by your physical, mental and emotional health. Just a few deep breaths and a five-minute mindfulness practice each day can improve your well-being. Here are a few tips to help you integrate self-care into your routine for a healthy, work-life balance!
Schedule Time In Your Day for Self-Care Activities
Renowned author Stephen Covey advises “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” Not sure exactly when you want to schedule your self-care? Beach Balance at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center (SRWC) offers free weekly events that promote holistic health and wellness like Meditation Mondays, Art Therapy Tuesdays, Well-Rested Wednesdays, Chair Massage Thursdays, and Foam Rolling Fridays. An upcoming special event that you can add to your calendar is our Night of Relaxation on Wednesday, Dec. 8, which is centered around helping students unwind just before finals. Additionally, the SRWC is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., which provides a nice window for students with all kinds of schedules to stop by for a quick, stress-relieving workout.
Talk To Those Who Support You in a Safe Space
While meditation and exercise are great practices, self-care doesn't always have to look like keeping to yourself. Meeting with a friend for a cup of coffee, and a study session where you can be productive together, can be therapeutic and energizing. Some places on campus that are great for studying include the newly renovated Horn Center, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf in the University Student Union (USU), the Caffeine Lab in the library, and the Student Success Center. If you feel that you’re overwhelmed with stress, or difficult emotions and need a person to just listen, there are also a variety of on-campus resources available to you to support your health needs. These include YOU at CSULB; a 24/7 mental health resource personalized for each student, Counseling and Psychological Services, Beach Wellness, the Basic Needs Program and Student Health Services. If you are struggling, please know that you are seen, heard and so loved at our university.
Go Outside for Some Fresh Air and Sunshine
Lastly, an effortless way to unwind a little before finals is to just GO OUTSIDE! Being out in nature has been proven to decrease stress and anxiety, as well as increase energy and creativity. Whether you’re studying at a table outside on a USU terrace, or sprawled out on one of the many lawns on campus, breathing in the fresh air and absorbing vitamin D from the sun will benefit your overall well-being. The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on-campus is a wonderful place to study while being immersed in nature. You can take a nice stroll surrounded by greenery and calming music, get a chance to feed the koi and experience a moment of Zen.
Let’s finish off this semester healthy and strong together. Go Beach! For more information on Beach Balance, visit asirecreation.org/beach-balance.
