By Ripples Turquand
A twice-yearly ritual. A messed-up sleep schedule. What could be better than moving on from Daylight Saving Time? Instead of being disoriented this Nov. 2 as we adjust our clocks, I’m here to guide you through some healthy day-to-day practices.
Good Morning!
For optimal sleep, former NHS clinician Dr. Deborah Lee suggests listening to and following your circadian rhythm. She says, “Your circadian rhythm is the pattern your body follows to know when it’s time to sleep and time to wake up. A huge factor in this is routine, and ensuring you’re going to sleep at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning.”
While the sun rises later, take advantage of the cool November air. The best time to go for a run is before 10 a.m., as the last thing we all want is to be drenched in sweat. If you’re anything like me, you will set your alarm for 6 a.m., roll out of bed at 6:15 a.m., and hit the Katy Trail by 6:30 a.m. Feeling accomplished is one of my favorite morning rituals.
If you’re not the type to work out in the morning, now’s the perfect time to do some mindfulness. Gratitude journaling, or simple acts of gratitude, is scientifically proven to be a therapy-adjacent practice to treat anxiety and depression. If you need inspo, my favorite things to reflect on are my health, family, and my ability to get up in the morning. It’s the simple things that keep me humble and happy. Though it is not a cure-all for midterm stress, positive feelings and good vibes will kickstart your day.
Before you head on over to class, take a moment to sip on some tea or coffee. Personally, I crave a good almond milk latte in the morning, or a crisp cold brew. However, peppermint tea is equally as delicious, and slightly healthier for you — it’s good for digestion and mental clarity.
Power through the afternoon.
By the afternoon, you won’t feel Standard Time as much. The afternoons can feel daunting, as there’s so much time to “get through.” Instead of existing, I want you to be living. I feel most alive when I’m moving, but since you’re likely a student reading this, I understand you might not have the luxury of avoiding studying.
I encourage you to sit outside and read your textbook, visit a new coffee shop for a change of scenery, or even study at the Dedman School of Law to break up your study routine. By changing your location, you’ll feel better about your study habits. Breaking a habit is scientifically proven to prevent burnout, help you see things differently, and boost your mood. You’ll soon romanticize studying. Overall, you’ll be a different — and maybe better -– version of yourself.
Almost done with the day!
Reset your mind and body as you wind down for the day. Before hopping into bed, you now have an extra hour to spend time with yourself or friends.
My favorite solo nights include a walk around Highland Park with a “sleepy girl mocktail” and ankle weights. I’ll turn on a podcast or play Kacey Musgraves and Lainey Wilson on repeat. But if a nighttime walk isn’t your thing, opt for sudoku, reading, or a face mask and a comfort show. I’m currently on my ‘Sex and the City’ and ‘Dexter’ grind.
Want to socialize? Talk to your family on the phone! See a friend. Work on homework together, chit-chat, or even sit in silence. According to a study on depression by The American Journal of Psychiatry, individuals with friends and trusted confidants tend to experience greater life satisfaction. So, hold your friends close and try to enjoy simple moments with them. End the day feeling accomplished and adequately socialized.
And repeat.
