The start of the university year is a time of change and a fresh start. Autumn is coming, and the colder months will be here in no time. With it, there’s often a sense of excitement around Halloween and Christmas, but also a bit of dread for the colder, darker days ahead. These months can make it notoriously difficult to maintain healthy routines, so here are a few ways to build habits into your daily routine that may help stave off the illnesses, fatigue, and burnout often associated with the winter season.
Diet
Eating well is essential and can significantly impact overall health and well-being. A balanced diet isn’t about restriction or counting calories; it’s about fueling your body according to your activity levels, whether physical, mental, or both. During the winter months, Vitamin D can be hard to come by due to limited sunlight exposure. Sheffield, especially, is known for its lack of sun year-round. However, diet can help supplement this with foods rich in Vitamin D, like salmon, tuna, mushrooms, and dairy products. Including or increasing these foods can provide the boost needed to get you through the colder months.
Exercise
Exercise advice is everywhere online, often with misinformation and “personal trainers” promoting a one-size-fits-all approach. However, exercise is personal, and it’s best to find a form that you enjoy rather than following trends. In winter, doing cardio like running can be a great way to warm up. The benefits of running in the cold are many, including improved oxygenation and cardiovascular strength. If running isn’t for you, holding a plank is a quick way to increase your body temperature and get a sweat going!
Studying
University and studying go hand in hand, but don’t forget to carve out time for yourself to rest. It’s easier said than done, but taking at least one day off each week from academic work and commitments can be more beneficial than powering through without breaks. With deadlines looming at the end of the year and in January, take time to enjoy the start of the semester and pace yourself to prevent burnout.
The autumn semester can be more challenging than the spring, but Christmas and family time are just around the corner. So buckle down, work hard (but not too hard), and enjoy all the wonderful things this season has to offer.
