By Ashley Brown, LCSW-R
Crisis Counselor at SUNY Ulster
April 7, 2022
For everyone on campus, we are approaching the finish line of the semester. Some are also approaching the culmination of their time at SUNY Ulster, graduating and are venturing further into their “start here, go far” journey.
If we think about marathons, the message tends to be to pace ourselves. Don’t rush, find balance, take water and snack breaks to keep ourselves going and maintain stamina. The same can apply to the course of the semester. The final stretch often requires us to pace ourselves leading up to it to support our highest potential. Here are some tips that many have found helpful to support success and overall wellness:
Routines: plan to go to sleep and wake up at the same times everyday. Be mindful of how much caffeine you are drinking and avoid this and sugar later in the day so you can rest.
Eat well: instead of captain crunch for breakfast, consider something more sustaining such as eggs, oatmeal (being mindful of sugars) keep snacks handy for your day that support brain health and energy (nuts, berries, bananas, yogurt, leafy greens).
Hydrate: water, water, water. Many experts believe that anything other than water is not hydrating. Water is like the WD40 for our skin, muscles, joints etc
Take breaks: stand up, stretch, take a walk, look outside your window, give your eyes and being a break from the computer. Even if you don’t have a lot of time, take a walk to your mailbox, around your house, if you are on campus…walk to the furthest restroom or go talk with someone face to face rather than sending an email. The change of perspective for both body and mind can really make a positive difference.
For any questions or other tips, please feel free to contact me at brownas@sunyulster.edu. Better yet, come on by to my office in Van 128. As always, consult with your doctors about what plans and food best suit you.
SUNY Ulster faculty and staff are here to support you to “start here and go far.” Best of luck on finals and all of your endeavors!
