Cold and flu season is upon us, and there is no better time than now to learn how to stay healthy during college. Colleges and universities can be a breeding ground for illness, so staying at your very best is important. University life can also affect our mental health, so it is important to learn how to care for yourself as well.
The fall and winter seasons are notorious at the University of Connecticut for bringing about sickness. It seems like everyone on campus has been feeling ill as of late. Protecting yourself from getting sick will not only make you feel better, but it will allow you to put your best foot forward for your midterm exams.
The easiest way to protect yourself is to get vaccinated for the flu. Flu shots are free for students on campus, and you can call Student Health and Wellness (SHaW) or visit their website to schedule your free vaccination today. Additionally, CVS in Downtown Storrs provides low-cost flu shots with proof of health insurance.
There are also many smaller, practical actions you can take to protect your health this season. For example, eating a healthy and well-rounded diet will help you fight off any illness you may come across. Getting enough nutrients, protein and an adequate number of calories in your diet will improve your overall health, as well as improve knowledge retention and processing.
Exercising is also a very important part of your health. Aim to get some activity each day, even if it is just a walk across campus. Spending time outside and moving your body is proven to increase the effectiveness of your immune system, as well as improve your mood and help your overall mental health. Low-impact exercise, such as yoga, can help you move your body while simultaneously reducing feelings of stress.
There are numerous opportunities for yoga classes on campus. You can take a class at the Student Recreation Center, do sunset yoga on Horsebarn Hill or attend a wellness community yoga class if you are a resident of Connecticut Hall. SHaW also puts on many meditation groups throughout the week that can help you find a moment of calm within your hectic schedule.
Making study plans around exam time may also keep you healthy by reducing stress. The better prepared you are, the less stressed you will be by exam time. Try making your own study plan, and make sure to prioritize assignments and exams that need more of your attention first.
Tackling the harder assignments first, as opposed to leaving them until the last minute, will make you feel much better prepared than you would otherwise. The Rowe Center also works with students on campus to create personalized study plans during busy times of the semester. It is the building located across from Homer Babbidge Library. Stop by during the day to schedule a time to meet with a peer worker or for more information!
Remember that health starts with protecting yourself from illness. Stop by the CVS or SHaW to get vaccinated for the flu this season. Working on having a balanced diet and adequate exercise can also help protect your immune system, as well as improve your overall mental health.
Staying prepared for your exams will also reduce stress, improving your health. Stop by the Rowe Center to help create a study plan or reach out to the Academic Achievement Center for tutoring. Hopefully, with these tips, you can stay as healthy as possible and put your best foot forward this semester. Good luck Huskies!