10 Healthy Habits to Bring into Spring
BY LAUREN ENGLISH
4-2-2024
BY LAUREN ENGLISH
4-2-2024
Spring is arguably the best season within the college calendar. With warmer weather, blooming flowers, and fellow Hokies enjoying our lovely campus. It's hard not to feel energized. Plus, the anticipation of summer break adds to the excitement.
Here are 10 healthy habits to make the most of spring and wrap up the semester on a high note.
Stay active outdoors
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the warmer weather by engaging in outdoor activities like walking, running, cycling or playing sports with your friends. Blacksburg has a variety of outdoor spaces. Be sure to embrace the duck pond, the Drillfield and the huckleberry trail while you have the chance.
Practice stress management
Spring can be a busy time for college students, especially with final exams and deadlines looming. It’s essential to practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga and spending time outside or with friends to keep your stress levels in check.
Stay Hydrated
As temperatures rise, it's important to stay hydrated so that you feel your best. Carry a reusable water bottle with you on campus and aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body functioning properly.
Enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables
Incorporate fresh produce into your diet, such as seasonal berries and leafy greens. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can support your immune system and overall health. Fortunately, Blacksburg hosts an incredible farmers market every Saturday and Wednesday that offers an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables sourced from local businesses.
Practice safe sun exposure
While it's important to get sunlight for some vitamin D, it's also crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, sunglasses and protective clothing when enjoying your time outdoors.
Maintain good hygiene
With warmer weather, it's important to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent illnesses and infections from spreading. Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, and continue to practice good oral hygiene.
Stay connected socially
Use spring to prioritize your relationships with friends and family. Social connection is important for mental health and well-being, so make time to hang out with loved ones and participate in social activities whenever possible.
Limit your screen time
When you’re not studying, try to spend less time on screens and more time outdoors participating in activities that promote physical activity, social connection or relaxation. Limiting your screen time can also improve the quality of your sleep and reduce eye strain.
Get enough sleep
To keep up with your busy spring schedule, it’s important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, mood regulation and overall health.
Prioritize your mental health
Lastly, spring is a great time to focus on your mental well-being. Take breaks when you need to, seek support from friends or a counselor and indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Navigating college can be challenging, and it's easy to get caught up solely in academics. Remember to prioritize self-care this spring and maximize the time you have.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, March 24). 8 strategies for a healthy spring. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-spring.htm
Here are 10 healthy habits to make the most of spring and wrap up the semester on a high note.
Stay active outdoors
Don’t hesitate to take advantage of the warmer weather by engaging in outdoor activities like walking, running, cycling or playing sports with your friends. Blacksburg has a variety of outdoor spaces. Be sure to embrace the duck pond, the Drillfield and the huckleberry trail while you have the chance.
Practice stress management
Spring can be a busy time for college students, especially with final exams and deadlines looming. It’s essential to practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga and spending time outside or with friends to keep your stress levels in check.
Stay Hydrated
As temperatures rise, it's important to stay hydrated so that you feel your best. Carry a reusable water bottle with you on campus and aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to keep your body functioning properly.
Enjoy seasonal fruits and vegetables
Incorporate fresh produce into your diet, such as seasonal berries and leafy greens. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that can support your immune system and overall health. Fortunately, Blacksburg hosts an incredible farmers market every Saturday and Wednesday that offers an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables sourced from local businesses.
Practice safe sun exposure
While it's important to get sunlight for some vitamin D, it's also crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Make sure to wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, sunglasses and protective clothing when enjoying your time outdoors.
Maintain good hygiene
With warmer weather, it's important to maintain good hygiene practices to prevent illnesses and infections from spreading. Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating, and continue to practice good oral hygiene.
Stay connected socially
Use spring to prioritize your relationships with friends and family. Social connection is important for mental health and well-being, so make time to hang out with loved ones and participate in social activities whenever possible.
Limit your screen time
When you’re not studying, try to spend less time on screens and more time outdoors participating in activities that promote physical activity, social connection or relaxation. Limiting your screen time can also improve the quality of your sleep and reduce eye strain.
Get enough sleep
To keep up with your busy spring schedule, it’s important to maintain a regular sleep schedule and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, mood regulation and overall health.
Prioritize your mental health
Lastly, spring is a great time to focus on your mental well-being. Take breaks when you need to, seek support from friends or a counselor and indulge in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Navigating college can be challenging, and it's easy to get caught up solely in academics. Remember to prioritize self-care this spring and maximize the time you have.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, March 24). 8 strategies for a healthy spring. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/infographic/healthy-spring.htm