By: Mikayla Boyd, Asst. Opinion Editor
Welcome to winter…kind of! The snowy and cold season is fast approaching, and while the Bills’ season may bring a weekly dose of excitement, the winter season can be a seemingly dreary and drab time of year. One of the best ways to reenergize during the winter season is to reinvest in yourself through practicing self-care. The forms that self-care can take are endless, and you can find the ones that fit your lifestyle and personality type the most!
One of the most common forms of self-care is journaling. Personally, this is my favorite mindful activity, and I think a lot of people can benefit from this. Often we are stuck in “go mode”, leaving no time for reflection and introspection. Journaling can help us slow down, focus on our values and check in with ourselves. This method of self-care can be tailored to you, as well! Whether it’s a quick jot in your notes app of your general mood and how your day went, or a detailed account of your week and how you’re feeling each moment, the process itself can give us the energy boost that winter often forces us to seek. It’s also pretty cool to look back on your journals from months or years ago if you end up sticking with it! If you prefer a virtual journal, apps like Daylio (my personal favorite) or the Apple app Journal can keep your memories, feelings and thoughts in the palm of your hand.
Another great form of self-care is moving your body. Science tells us that exercise releases endorphins which improve our moods, and I’m not one to argue with science. Things like taking a walk, playing Just Dance with friends or doing some stretches can give us a more positive attitude that we can use to tackle finals and get ready for a new year. Palisano Fitness Center here on campus is a great place to exercise, especially in the winter months when bundling up for a walk is a detestable suggestion. Finding small ways to incorporate exercise into your routine will help boost your mood and ground yourself.
Channeling your artistic side can also act as a method of self-care. If you find yourself doodling on your papers in the middle of a lecture, like I often do, I challenge you to embark on an elevated artistic endeavor. The quality of your product matters very little, but the process of, say, painting, drawing or knitting releases stress and provides an outlet for whatever emotions you are feeling. Even coloring in a coloring book can give you something to focus on besides assignments or general stressful thoughts. Most likely you will be proud of whatever you end up creating, anyways; it’s hard not to be, given how enjoyable unleashing your often-ignored creative side is!
Overall, self-care is important. Self-care is not selfish – it’s necessary to keep you, the person who people around you love and care for, healthy and living your best life. Self-care can feel especially hard in the winter months, but small acts of kindness for yourself go a long way. Whether you take up a new hobby like journaling or painting, I hope that you usher in the new season with a reenergized outlook!