1. Self-Care Comes First
When we have a lot on our plate, it’s easy to put our self-care on the back burner. We try to power through our days, trying to accomplish it all- and expecting perfection from ourselves. The pressure to live up to high expectations from ourselves and others in addition to heavy work loads are an easy way to burn out. So I say this with a lot of enthusiasm- Self Care Comes First. You can truly only give to others and your obligations only AFTER you have taken care of yourself.
2. Time Management
Time management is one of the top areas our Health Coaches work with students on. When your time is properly managed, stress and overwhelm will subside in a major way. First, use goals to structure your calendar. Here are some tips:
· Identify your top 3 goals
· Make a list of weekly tasks that support these goals
· Pencil in deadlines on your calendar
· Schedule activities into your calendar with start and end times
· Use a timer to stay on track
· Evaluate your productivity at the end of the week and tweak your calendar as needed
3. Citron Monthly Lifestyle Membership
Lifestyle memberships help keep your self-care goals on track. From facials and relaxation body sessions to infrared sauna treatments, these treatments will help you maintain regular wellness and beauty. Go a step further and schedule your appointments for 6 months out, ensuring time for yourself gets penciled into your calendar, freeing you up to focus on other things.
4. Diet + Exercise
Fueling your body with fruits, vegetables and whole grains will help your body maintain the energy and focus it needs to take on your studies. Regular exercise will release stress and deliver healthy endorphins to help create a healthy mind and body in addition to your diet. Think about which exercises might be best for you such as the types of exercises you did as a kid. Did you enjoy dancing, running or biking? This is a good way to find an exercise that you will follow through with. It is also beneficial to find the time of day that you have the most energy and pencil in your exercise during those time frames.
5. Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
This can come in many different forms but I highly recommend incorporating some form of mindfulness practice into your schedule to manage your stress. Meditation and yoga are a couple of great ways to reduce stress through mindful breathing.
6. Establish a Skincare Routine
Not only will this give your skin a fresh glow, it is a great way to unwind at the end of the day. Put on some soothing music and light a soy candle or use an aroma therapy diffuser. Prepare a bowl of warm water with your favorite essential oil and a soft facial towel and set out your skincare products. Slowly and mindfully apply a cleanser, exfoliant, mask, toner, serum, moisturizer and eye cream. You can even perform a little facial massage to get your blood circulating. Remember to take deep inhalations as you apply your warm towel throughout your routine.
7. Find a Mentor or Accountability Coach
Having an accountability coach is always helpful in maintaining your self-care goals. Feel free to schedule a free 30 minute consult with one of our health coaches to find out how our one on one coaching program can help you stay on track.
References:
Are You Craving Movement. 2016 Integrative Nutrition Inc.