Being a post-secondary student can be mentally draining. As students, we often sit in the library, sit in class and sit in front of the computer doing homework. This routine allows little opportunity to get our blood flowing. Healthy living involves not only flexing your brain muscle but also spending some time on yourself by exercising and relaxing.
It is good to get out of the chair, get some air and be physically active each day. Not only will this benefit you immediately by releasing endorphins to make you feel a little less stressed, but it will also help you in the long run. Good physical health can increase confidence, self-discipline, the quality of relationships and your overall emotional being. The benefits of a healthy, balanced lifestyle reach far beyond what we see in the every day.
Post-secondary programs do not require students to take an gym class like we did in elementary school. So we need to take it upon ourselves to schedule in time for exercise. Being active doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym, though organized exercise does come with the benefit of being able to make and track goals easily.
Start small and create little changes that can help you attain a more active lifestyle. Try walking or biking to school if you live close enough, or take a study break outdoors. Most universities and colleges have facilities available to students for little or no charge, as well as intramural sports and clubs ranging from badminton to skiing. You can do many different group activities, such as dance classes, meditation or yoga sessions.
Remember — don’t go too hard too fast! If you’re too sore the day after your first workout, it will be tough to convince yourself to go back. So take it slow, set realistic goals, and enjoy your time away from your studies.
Jacqueline Hansen is a student ambassador at Seneca College.
