Practice self-care for a more balanced, low-stress life

Self-care can includes basic practices that encourage a healthier lifestyle, typically resulting in increased physical and mental well-being.

Some examples of activities include exercising, meditation or prayer, listening to music, and writing in a journal. What makes this idea special is that everyone’s activities vary based on what makes them feel better.

People often think of self-care as being hygiene-related, like taking a hot bath, but they can also include regularly getting emotional support from friends and family. Depending on personal environment, self-care can be difficult because the resources are not available.

USC Aiken offers ample resources on-campus that can help you. The Wellness Center, which is a full gym, offers classes like yoga, zumba and others. The Counseling Center employs therapists, offering therapy for free to all students. In the library, students can find the Academic Success center, which offers free tutoring in most any class.

Whether you choose to exercise, listen to music, go to counseling or hang out with friends, it is important for all students to have a way to relax and let go of the stress of school and other obligations.