We are in week 4 of the DC program and life has gotten quite busy to say the least. We’re in full session now with in-person labs, challenging exams, numerous quizzes, and lots of reading and studying. If you’re anything like me, stress is not your friend. I tend to cocoon myself in my bedroom all day reviewing PowerPoints, writing on boards, and filling out Neuroanatomy brain illustrations to drill material into my brain (no pun intended). It’s not the healthiest lifestyle and I am trying to work on that. It is so important to give yourself an hour (or even two 30-minute increments) a day to stretch, go for a walk, do some yoga, or exercise. Your heart, body, and brain will thank you! I’ve taken up cycling and have come to really enjoy it. It is the time when I get to allow myself to unwind from academics, daydream, and listen to pumped up music while I get my heart rate going. I am finding that balancing life and academics is crucial in maintaining personal wellness.

Good grades are important, but so is good health. I find that after a good workout, I am ready for “round 2” of a study block and have an easier time falling asleep afterwards. And on that note, please aim to get at least seven hours of sleep a night! Your body really needs it. I, too, have been in that same situation where I am guzzling down another cup of coffee while glancing at my watch and realizing it’s 3 A.M. and there is class (or worse…an exam) in five hours. You go through the next day wondering why none of the material you studied stuck. Your brain was overworked. Just like your sore muscles after training need to rest, your brain needs time to restore itself. It does so while we sleep.

To all my fellow readers, give yourself that well deserved break. Go for a walk and catch up with a friend, hunt down some fun YouTube workout videos, and take out that dusty old bike and go for a ride! And give yourself those solid Zzzs of sleep tonight!

{{cta(’88d1f92c-eec6-45a6-ada7-5a0fa717195b’)}}