5 Healthy Habits Every UND Student Should Adopt
As a student at the University of North Dakota (UND), it’s not always easy to remember to take care of your health. With classes to attend, tests to study for, and deadlines to meet, it can be challenging to prioritize your well-being. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for both your physical and mental health. Here are five healthy habits every UND student should adopt:
1. Get Enough Sleep
One of the most crucial healthy habits you can adopt is getting enough sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should aim to get between 7-9 hours of sleep every night. Unfortunately, studies show that college students, on average, are getting far less sleep than that. Sleep deprivation can lead to a range of negative consequences, including decreased cognitive function and increased risk for mental health issues. Therefore, it’s critical to make sleep a priority and establish a regular sleep routine.
2. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise has countless benefits for both physical and mental health. Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and boost mood and energy levels. Thankfully, UND has no shortage of ways to stay active, from the fitness center to intramural sports teams. Find an activity you enjoy, such as running, swimming, or playing tennis, and make it a regular part of your routine. Even short, daily walks can have a significant impact on your overall health.
3. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and fully engaging with your surroundings. College can be a stressful time, but practicing mindfulness can help you manage stress more effectively. Mindfulness can also help you improve attention and focus and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. There are many ways to practice mindfulness, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. Find what works best for you and incorporate it into your daily routine.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
College can be a time of unhealthy eating habits, with late-night study snacks and fast food runs. However, eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can have a significant impact on your overall health and energy levels. Try to cook at home as much as possible, pack healthy snacks to take to class, and aim to have a variety of colors on your plate at each meal.
5. Build Strong Relationships
Finally, building strong, supportive relationships is essential for maintaining good mental health. Connections with friends and family can help reduce stress and anxiety and boost overall happiness. Take the time to cultivate meaningful relationships with those around you. Join a group or club that interests you, attend social events, and prioritize quality time with loved ones.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, adopting healthy habits can have a significant impact on your overall well-being during your time at UND. From getting enough sleep to building strong relationships, there are many ways to prioritize your health. By making small changes to your daily routine and sticking to them, you can develop a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. Remember, taking care of yourself should always be a top priority.
