For many of us, school is back in session or will be soon.  That means a change in schedule. Maybe it will be calmer for you. Maybe more hectic.  Either way, it’s an exciting time, but also a stress filled time.  During the craziness, it is easy to let taking care of ourselves go. However, during these times, taking a few minutes for some self-care can help decrease overwhelm and make you more efficient and effective.

Try to schedule two 20-minute time blocks each day just for you.  Here are a few ideas:

1. Walk around your neighborhood, the block, or campus. The simple movement of walking helps us both mentally and physically. If you grab a friend, it is great social time too!
2. Write out your grocery list.  Sounds silly, but having a list when you go to the store reduces the stress of “forgetting something” and you make healthier food choices.
3. Mediate – 20 minutes might feel too long. Ok. Then set the timer on your phone for 5 minutes. Close your door, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Breath in through your nose for a 4 count and out through your mouth for 8. When a thought floats in, acknowledge it and go back to focusing on your breath. After even just 5 minutes, you will feel calmer and more centered.
4. Take a warm Epsom salt bath.  The minerals in Epsom salt will help relax your muscles and the quietness of a warm bath will relax your mind.
5. Plan and prep your meals for the next 3 days.  Having a plan means better choices.  Cleaning and chopping veggies and fruit makes it easier to grab a healthy snack or pack your lunch.
6. Take a power nap. 20 minutes is all it takes. 
7. Do a JOB1 Workout. It is amazing what kind of workout you can get done in a concentrated 20 minute time block.
8. Stretch. Pay particular attention to your shoulders, back, neck, hamstrings and hip flexors. 
9. Play with your pet.
10. Read a chapter from a fun, uplifting book
11. Sit by the water or get into nature. Listen, smell, observe. Just be.