Energy-Boosting Tips for University Students

University can be exhausting. Most students have full schedules that include attending classes, studying, completing assignments, working, and socializing. Juggling these many responsibilities can really zap your energy over time. Many students seek quick boosts of energy through caffeine, regularly downing coffee or energy drinks. Yet, caffeine can actually do more harm than good. To boost your energy and stay on top of your responsibilities, here are some healthier habits to try.

Develop a Sleep Schedule

Maintaining a steady sleep schedule plays a major role in staving off daytime fatigue. A regular sleep schedule consists of going to bed and waking up at similar times each day. It’s therefore a good idea to avoid all-night study sessions, partying too late, and late-night gaming. Keeping a steady sleep schedule and sleeping seven to nine hours per night will help you feel energized. Getting enough sleep also enhances mental clarity and elasticity, improving focus, concentration, and the overall ability to learn.

Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, can lead to dark under eye circles, irritability, decreased focus and concentration, daytime drowsiness, stress, anxiety, and headaches. Napping can help, but should generally be avoided unless you’re extremely drowsy. If you nap, only do so before 4 pm, and for no longer than 30 minutes. A 30-minute nap is typically just enough to give you a quick energy boost during the day.

Eat Properly

Eating healthy foods throughout the day can help you maintain and even boost your energy levels. Whenever possible, choose healthy, nutrient-dense foods like lean protein, vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and healthy fats. Some excellent options to consider are grilled meats, nuts, whole wheat rice or pasta, fresh veggies, and low-fat dairy. To maintain a balanced diet on campus, visit the salad bar in the dining hall and opt for foods that are filled with fiber to keep you full and energized.

Take In Enough Calories

Eating the proper amount significantly contributes to overall energy, ensuring you have enough to make it through the day. To this sustain energy, you’ll need to take in enough calories for your body’s unique needs. Listen to your body, eat when you feel hungry, and stop when you feel full. If it’s more convenient for you, consider eating four to six small meals per day instead of three larger ones. This may help boost energy and metabolism, fueling optimal physical and mental performance.

Minimize Junk Foods

Junk foods are delicious, but it’s no secret that they aren’t exactly good for you. They’re full of empty calories, unhealthy preservatives, fat, and sugar. Not only are these ingredients unhealthy, but they can drain your energy and cause a crash later. Try to find healthier alternatives and skip purchasing these foods to avoid temptation.

Get Active

Physical activity can improve stamina and endurance, facilitating sustainable energy. While it may require a little push to get going, getting exercise can even be helpful during moments of drowsiness. To get an immediate energy boost that could last hours, take a brisk walk or do a 20-minute cardio session.

Regular exercise also increases alertness, making it easier to concentrate in class, retain information, and grasp complex material. Additionally, exercise increases the release of mood-boosting endorphins. If you live off campus in one of the best rooms for rent Hamilton has to offer (West Village Suites!!), you could take advantage of gym facilities to do a quick workout between classes.