Five Ways to Stay Healthy in College

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Brita. All opinions are 100% mine.

Hi Friends,

It's hard to believe that just a couple months ago I was lending my shoulder to my heartbroken girl. You can read about those sad moments rightHERE.

It has been said, "Time heals all wounds.” Over the few short months of summer, and with the help of her counselor and her (very supportive) friends, my daughter has been able to recharge and rejuvenate. There is no greater joy than seeing your child smile again after going through such a rough period. I think we, as mothers, all want the best for our kids, especially when it comes to happiness.

As a mother, it's always been my main priority
to guide my kids and give them the tools needed to succeed. Now that my girl is heading off to college is no different. We spent a good amount of time shopping for all the things she needed for her freshman year at Target. 

However, aside from the regular things like notebooks, pencils, room decor, clothes, etc., I'm also filling her with advice on how to keep her mind and body healthy and happy with these five key points:

1. Healthy Eating Habits

It all starts with nutrition. What you put into your body affects how you feel every day. First things first: make sure to eat breakfast. It's called the most important meal of the day for a reason. Skipping breakfast is robbing yourself of the necessary kick-start to your day. This can make you feel sluggish and tired, and you will be more likely to have sick days than you would if you got the proper nourishment that morning.

Ensuring that your body is getting the proper nutrients not only makes you healthier physically, but it also improves your moods. Studies linking mental health with nutrition point out that a lack of certain foods in your diet can make you more likely to be depressed. I want my girl to stay happy, so eating healthy, balanced meals is a must! Luckily, there are loads of healthy eating options on campus to keep her feeling her best.

2. Stay Hydrated

Available at Target

Water is the best thing to drink and stay hydrated, and it's easy to incorporate great-tasting water in your routine with Brita. Filtering water has never been easier, whether in the room with the Brita Space Saver Pitcher or on the go with a reusable water filter bottle. Since the body is constantly losing water, either through sweat or other means, it's essential to stay hydrated. Both our brain functions and energy levels are improved by drinking approximately eight 8-oz cups of water a day, and if there's anything a college student needs, it's energy and brains.

I highly recommend the Brita Space Saver Pitcher for college students because it's an easy-to-use water filtration system that fits perfectly into most mini-fridges, and it's simple to refill. The filter makes sure all the yucky stuff (like copper and black flecks) is taken out of the water and leaves it tasting clean and fresh. When you're not in your dorm room and you want to take Brita water with you, you can bring along the Brita water bottle, which has it's own filter.

3. Exercise

Proper eating and hydration only goes so far. It's time to bust out the yoga pants and get in shape! My daughter is a healthy girl, but even the healthiest of people can benefit from exercise. Exercising regularly helps you to keep in shape and maintain a healthy body weight, as well as helping to elevate your moods. Simply going for a morning jog releases endorphins which can lead to a state of happiness called a “runner's high.” Other benefits include helping to fight heart disease, strengthening your bones and muscles, and it can even help you live longer! For those chilly winter months where you can't jog outside, utilize the school fitness center or try yoga with a friend. Your body will thank you.

4. Good Sleep Patterns 

I can't stress this enough: you need to get enough sleep! Our bodies get tired out after a long day of school, work or other activities, so it's important to get at least seven hours of sleep every night. Sleep deprivation can have negative effects on the body and mind, including poorer performance and reduced memory. For a college student, sleep deprivation can be incredibly detrimental. Although a couple all-nighters here and there may be necessary in college, make sure you get consistent rest as much as possible. Since my daughter has her own car now, I don't want her falling asleep at the wheel due to lack of sleep, so this point is really getting hammered home!

5. Manage Stress 

There's no doubt that college is stressful. All those class projects and the gigantic load of homework really start to pile up. That's why college students need an effective means of managing their stress. Fortunately, the previous four tips all help to reduce stress and improve moods. Eating properly, staying hydrated, exercise and sleep all help to keep you in a healthy state of mind. Most college campuses will also have counseling centers for those who need help managing their anxiety, so don't be afraid to use them.

Most of these advice was given to her throughout the years, but hey, I'm the mother, I should re-enforce this points one more time!

 :)

How about you moms, graduates, college students out there. What's your best advice on staying healthy in college?


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