Staying Fit and Healthy as a Full Time Nursing Student
So, of course, we all want to incorporate fitness and maintain a healthy lifestyle while in nursing school, right? We can quickly lose track of our physical well-being between intensive studying, long clinical hours, and spending time with family. As a veteran, I'm used to working out 2-3 times a day, 5-6 days a week. But I have to make a mental note and tell myself that my studies will come first. That doesn't mean I have to forget about my lovely workouts completely. When I've clocked in about 5 hours of studying, I'm mentally exhausted. Taking in so much information can be a lot and makes us stressed. So what I like to do is get some blood pumping to my brain, take that mental stress, and turn it into physical tension. Even just 30 minutes of cardio is more beneficial than none at all. Working out can be complex and straightforward; 5 rounds of jumping jacks for 30 seconds, jogging in place for 1 minute, or bodyweight squats in your living room can get your mind off of that homework that's giving you trouble or that online test that you have coming up. Let's not forget your favorite playlist! Stepping away for a while, getting that good blood flowing while jamming to your favorite songs can help you de-stress. It'll also motivate you! After a gym session, I tend to come home a little more motivated about the goals I may have for myself, whether it's school, my family, or personal goals. It allows me to reset and approach things with a more concentrated mind. Bring your study materials to the gym with you. We're on our phones every day. We can create flashcards, download so many apps that can help us learn drugs and terms. Instead of music, you could listen to your online lectures or YouTube videos while walking on the treadmill for 30 minutes. A fantastic 2-in-1, I would say!
Let's not forget about nutrition. We need to consume foods that impact our brains in good ways. Healthy carbs give us the brainpower to push through those long days at the lecture. Proteins and fiber can keep us full and satiated during clinical days. And water. Water keeps us hydrated and moving smoothly. Physical health is just as important as our mental health. It's a continuum. When one is affected, the other is also affected. We can get busy; life can present things that keep us from focusing on our needs. But when you do have time, go for that run, take a walk in nature, get out of the house, step away even if it's just for 10 minutes to reset and refocus.
Written by: Devianta Ellis
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