“SLOW DOWN SOMETIMES EVEN IF YOU ARE BUSY” — MAYOWA (NIGERIA)

1. Exercise your body for a happy mind

That will go a long way to reducing stress. Even just a brisk walk in the morning will energize and motivate you for the day ahead. Set your alarm for a little earlier than usual and hit the pavement. Save time by preparing the night before. Lay out your exercise clothes so that you can get going with minimal preparation time.

2. Keep a journal

Writing is a therapeutic writing. In just a few minutes, you can write your thoughts, worries, gratitude, or whatever else comes to mind. Keep the journal near your bed and make a habit of writing a few paragraphs or even sentences each night before you go to sleep.

3. Read a book or a magazine

We all need to escape from the pressing concerns of reality once in a while. On your next lunch break get away from your computer and pick up a book in your favourite genre or a hobby magazine. Reading is a relaxing activity that helps us escape from the pressures of our lives.

4. Call an old friend

Reconnect with someone you haven’t had time to talk to in a while. Busy lives get in the way of friendship. Career, family, responsibility makes us forget those who are dear to us. Friends become distant memories. In the social media age, people tend to keep track of friends through various social media sites, but rarely ever pick up the phone…Not a good idea!

5. Unplug from technology

People tend to grab their phone first thing when waking up. Then work begins. Checking email leads to replying to email and before you know it, it’s time to get up and get ready for school. Leave the electronic alone! Until you’ve given yourself time to prepare for the day. Make time for breakfast (the most important meal of the day) and save the email for the end of your morning ritual.

6. Get enough sleep

When all you do is work, life is hectic. We don’t give our bodies as much rest as they need to fully function. Pretty soon we find ourselves running on empty. Sleep is not only good for the body, but it is also good for the mind. A well-rested body and mind can accomplish great things.

7. Remind yourself that you are fabulous

Don’t let deadlines and a demanding school work get you down. Remind yourself of all the things you have accomplished and don’t get caught up in problems or failures. Taking time to remember things that define you as an individual outside your work will contribute significantly to peace of mind.

Your body and mind are your most valuable assets. To get through each day, both need to be kept in good shape. Remember to give yourself a tune up every day by doing some of the activities mentioned above. Schedule time for yourself and your mind and body will thank you.

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