Importance of Self-Care!

W.H. Thompson GA and Graduate Ambassador: Jess Tate
W.H. Thompson GA and Graduate Ambassador: Jess Tate

Hi W.H. Thompson Students,

I am going to share a blog I wrote pertaining to "Self-Care" which will be of critical importance to keep in mind for finals week and life in general as a college student.
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It can be hard to prioritize our personal needs when we are constantly prioritizing the next paper, project, presentation, or lab report. However, it is essential to prioritize self-care into our daily regimen as college students so that we can be effective and put our best foot forward. Self care can be described as a way of living that incorporates any intentional actions you take to care for your physical and mental/ emotional health. These behaviors will assist in refreshing yourself and replenishing your personal motivation. By becoming aware and building up a collection of self-care habits you can positively affect your quality of life today and in the future.

Here are some examples of self care:
Physical self care includes any intentional actions you take to care for your physical, mental and emotional health.
•Eating regular healthy meals rather than fast food
•Exercise daily, this can include for example a quick walk or participating in an intramural sport on campus
•Get plenty of sleep
•Go to the doctor when you are sick

Mental/emotional self care involves practices that maintain your mental strength and emotional health.
•Seek out counseling or psychotherapy (Counseling and School Psychology Clinic on campus located in 49 Teachers College Hall:http://cehs.unl.edu/edpsych/graduate/copsychclinic.shtml
•Keeping a journal to jot down thoughts or feelings
•Meditation or relaxation exercises such as deep breathing techniques
•Focus on nurturing relationships and or expanding/ improving your social supports

You might be wondering “How will I have time to incorporate self-care into my daily life?” Life goal experts suggest that you put self-care into your schedule similar to the way you put your deadlines on your calendar. Treat self-care or leisure appointments serious just as you would your school appointments and mark it on your calendar that way you have a sense of obligation towards your self-care endeavors. Make self-care a priority and something that you value and plan rather than something that just happens by accident.

Sincerely, Jess Tate
Graduate Ambassador
W.H. Thompson G.A.

Contact me for questions about graduate school, professional development (CV's/personal statement), and if you are interested in UCARE/McNair at grad-jtate@unl.edu

More details at: http://go.unl.edu/s498