Congratulations! You’re either in the home stretch of studying for exams and finishing final projects or nearly finished for the semester. You may travel to visit loved ones, prepare for holiday celebrations, or work extra hours. Maybe this is a difficult time of year for you. With the hustle culture of the season, it’s easy to neglect your health and wellness. Read on for tips to help you stay healthy and happy during this winter break and manage holiday stress.
Prioritize Sleep
- Set a Regular Sleep Schedule: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
- Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: This could include reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.
- Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
Manage Stress
- Practice Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Time Management: Create a to-do list and prioritize tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Several AI apps are great at helping you create and manage task lists. Ask Gemini, ChatGPT, or Claude to help you write a prompt for this if you’re unsure how to start.
- Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings. All Miami University Students have access to free or low-cost counseling.
Stay Active
Did you know that raising your heart rate with 20-30 minutes of exercise can release the same chemicals in your brain that relieve stress and anxiety? It may be chilly where you are, but fresh air can increase your well-being if you dress for the weather.
- Move More Throughout the Day: Take short breaks to stretch and move around.
- Indoor Workouts: Try yoga, HIIT, or strength training. Many of these practices don’t require special equipment or a gym membership.
- Outdoor Activities: Winter offers many opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Whether you hike through a snowy forest, glide on the ice, or simply take a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone. Many parks offer accessible trails and paths, which is helpful if you use assistive devices.
Nourish Your Body
- Eat a Balanced Diet: When possible, fuel yourself with whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. According to the Mayo Clinic, men should drink about 15.5 cups, and women should drink about 11.5 cups of fluids or water daily.
- Limit Processed Foods and Sugary Drinks: These can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. However, let’s be realistic; it’s the holiday season. Enjoy a little indulgence. Eat and drink mindful portions with plenty of hydration.
Take Time for Yourself
- Self-Care Activities: Indulge in a few activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time in nature.
- Set Boundaries: Don’t overcommit yourself during the holidays. The Crisis Text Line offers helpful suggestions for permitting yourself to say “no” to holiday invitations and avoiding debt.
- Practice Gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life. Try journaling at least three ideas, relationships, or things you’re grateful for daily. Refer back to your lists if you’re feeling discouraged or grumpy.
Additional Tips for College Students
- Stay Connected with Loved Ones: Virtual gatherings, phone calls, or Facetime calls can help reduce stress and loneliness if you can’t get together in person.
- Prepare for Next Semester: Get organized now so you’re ready to focus on learning when classes begin.
- If you have the syllabi for your upcoming classes, what steps can you take to acquire books and materials now?
- Update your schedule on your calendar or planner. Include time blocks for studying, classes, work, and family, if applicable.
- Delete old messages or emails that you no longer need.
- Save or archive presentations, research, or projects that you may need to refer to for future job considerations.
- Check your technology to ensure that everything is working efficiently.
Cheers to Healthy Endings and New Beginnings
Miami Online wishes you a restful and energizing winter break. We hope you take time to care for yourself and others.
Content is written by Carrie Geygan, Digital Content Specialist, Miami Online, with the assistance of Gemini AI.
