intro
Most people would agree that rest is an important aspect of one's health. Rest can include both leisure and sleep, and both are important elements of one's overall health, particularly college students.
benefits of sleep/problem
- Average college students gets roughly 4 hours of leisure time on an average weekday, and the average
- college student gets roughly 8.8 hours of sleep on an average weekday. Sleep is vital to overall health and provides many benefits, such as increased energy, a stronger immune system, and better memory.
However, heavy workloads and high stress levels often lead to college students getting less than the ideal amount of sleep. This can cause problems not only academically, but also with health (both mental and physical).
example
I am sure many of you have experienced this struggle. It is the night before a big exam, and you are beyond tired, but you also don't feel prepared enough for the test. You have two options: review your notes and then go to bed at a decent time, giving your mind and body to recover through the process if sleep, or stay up all night cramming information. Most students opt for the second option, feeling that it is more beneficial and effective, when in reality, it is the exact opposite.
In terms of leisure activities, many students also tend to feel it is the more responsible and effective option to coop themselves up in their rooms and study. While it is important to spend time studying, it is also important to spend time doing activities that allow your mind and body to rest. In order to thrive, you need to respect your body and mind's needs, which include leisure and rest.
In terms of leisure activities, many students also tend to feel it is the more responsible and effective option to coop themselves up in their rooms and study. While it is important to spend time studying, it is also important to spend time doing activities that allow your mind and body to rest. In order to thrive, you need to respect your body and mind's needs, which include leisure and rest.
LEISURE ACTIVITY IDEAS
- Watching Tv
- Socializing
- Exercising
solution/helpful tips
Leisure
Sleep
- Find an exercise that you enjoy (not something that feels like a chore)! Maybe add friends or music to make it fun.
- Set aside a time 2-3 days a week to participate in quality leisure activities.
- Get involved in an organization (i.e. Get Plugged In!, UPC)
Sleep
- Make a cozy bedtime routine (wash your face, light a candle, read, etc.)
- Track your sleep quality (fitbit, other smartphone apps)
- Increase bright light exposure in the day, and limit blue light at night
- Set your room to 70°
- Avoid late-night caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals
Helpful apps
Skillshare: Skillshare is a online learning community where people come together to take new steps in their creative journeys.
Podcast: This allows an audience to discover new stories for entertainment, learning, and inspiration. Sleep Cycle: Sleep tracking, waking you up at your lightest REM cycle so you feel most refreshed Slumber: Sleep sounds and sleep-inducing stories What's Up: Uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Acceptance Commitment Therapy to help you cope with depression, anxiety, stress, and more Headspace: An app that teaches all ages how to meditate and practice mindfulness. Meditation reduces stress, improves focus, and encourages better sleep |