Taking care of your mind and body during finals week is essential to your overall mental and physical wellbeing. Self-care looks different for everyone simply because it is a time to take care of your personal needs. Here are some suggestions for well-balanced meals and other ways to prioritize your wellbeing— because you deserve it. 💪
Planning a balanced meal
It can be challenging to find the time to cook yourself a balanced meal during the week. However, it’s important for not only your physical health, but your mental health as well. Eating well will help you power through your studies. You know your body, so here’s how you can put together a balanced plate:
Choose a complex carbohydrate:
Brown rice
Sweet potatoes
Whole grain noodles
Whole grain bread
Choose a protein:
Chicken
Turkey
Salmon
Shrimp
Eggs
Tofu
Edamame
Tempeh
Choose a fat:
Olive oil
Avocado
Nuts — Almonds, cashews, pistachios
Don’t forget to add in your favorite veggies and any dressing of your choice and enjoy!
Moving your body
Exercising releases feel-good endorphins and can immediately boost your mood. Whether you decide to work out at home, outside, in the weight room, or at a group fitness class, any form of movement that allows you to disconnect and refresh is worthwhile. This is also a great way to carve out time for yourself or to connect with friends and workout together.
Taking yourself on a date
It can be hard to set aside time for yourself, but that is exactly why you should dedicate time to do exactly what YOU want to do. This doesn’t have to be anything fancy, it could be as simple as making yourself dinner, going out to the movies, or buying yourself a coffee. Remember that if your cup is only half full, you can only be halfway present for others. You deserve to take the time to do things that fill up your cup.
You are a superstar! Remember that finals are only one week, but looking after your mental and physical wellbeing is a lifelong endeavor. Look after yourself first and foremost, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support. UHS Mental Health Services is a great place to start: https://www.uhs.wisc.edu/mental-health.
