Sleep
Regular sleep makes you more efficient when you’re awake. It also builds up your resistance, so you’ll be less likely to get sick. Don’t cut back on sleep to cram for an exam. The resulting brain drain will outweigh any benefits of studying until 4 a.m.
Exercise
We’ve all heard that exercising is good for your heart and helps you lose weight. Exercise also offers many other benefits like improving mental vigor, enhancing creativity, combating stress and helping you get a better night’s rest.
Eat Healthy
We know a healthy, stable diet and a freshman’s hectic lifestyle don’t easily mix. But you can beat the “Freshman 15” (pounds, that is) and other pitfalls by:
- eating only when hungry and stopping when you’re satisfied, not stuffed;
- avoiding high-fat foods;
- replacing high-sugar drinks, like soda and juice, with water;
- using skim or low-fat milk and cheese;
- eating whole-grain breads and more fruits and vegetables.
Wash Your Hands
When living in a communal environment, you’re constantly coming in contact with germs on desks, doorknobs, keyboards and other shared places. Washing your hands reduces your chances of getting ill.
Quit Smoking
Quitting pays off right away. Ex-smokers have fewer days of illness and other health complaints than current smokers. Quitting also saves loads of money, which is something every college student needs.