College is all about choices. No one monitoring your every move, demanding you make it to that 8am, pushing you to study the hours you know you should really be studying, no one stopping you from napping and netflix-ing, no one lecturing you when you come home at 3 am, and certainly no one guiding you to make healthy food choices in the dining halls and incorporating workouts into your routine. For many people, it's the first time in our lives we haven't had this guidance and structure, and for many of us it's the first time we have had so much work as well as so much freedom.
In-between a rigorous course load, staying on top of homework, participating in clubs and organizations, and attempting to also have a social life, it sometimes feels like you couldn't possibly find time to hit the gym. And even if you think you might have the time to get active, you might ask yourself where do I even start? How do I eat healthy in the commons and on campus? What other ways can I stay active on campus without being stuck in a gym?
The biggest thing to point out is that a healthy life style looks different on everyone. Everyone has different capabilities, fitness levels, and knowledge, and therefore cannot compare their own health goals to another. My goal for this blog is to detail ways to find a balance of health and happiness in the hectic lives of college students in a way that is relatable and applicable for all different kinds of people. It is about the little choices you make day to day with the intentions of bettering yourself. It's about starting small, doing what you can, and deciding to be a healthier and happier you!
Whether you are just starting out, attempting to undergo a huge renovation in lifestyle, or have been a fitness and health freak like me forever, there is something for everyone on this blog. Each week I want to address different types of workouts I'll be trying out around campus (such as classes, hot yoga!!, and hiking), tips for healthy eating in commons and smart choices around campus, the benefits of different eating habits such as vegetarian and vegan and ways to make that happen on a meal plan, motivational tips, and more.
Health and fitness have been such a prominent part of my life from a young age. Growing up competitively swimming at high levels introduced me to weight training, what types of foods are best for fuel and recovery, and how to stay motivated and healthy through the whole process. I've had the privilege to work with some pretty amazing personal trainers and nutritionists during that time, and even have the privilege of having an awesome personal trainer/ super mom. The things I have learned from my time as an athlete stuck with me and I still incorporate this knowledge and mindset into my daily life now.
We encounter so much stress as college kids, from tests and deadlines, to social pressures and family relations, and I feel an outlet for this stress is almost crucial. Working out can become an hour focused on yourself to do something good for yourself and have fun while doing it, and it is bound to increase your energy and attitude in other aspects of your life. After all, life is about teetering the balance between hectic and healthy, and happiness is a side affect of such.
