Surviving Grad School: My Journey of Self-Care
When most people think of self-care, they often imagine bubble baths, facials, or trips to the nail salon. While these can be soothing, true self-care is about anything that feeds your soul and recharges your spirit. During my time in graduate school, self-care was a dynamic process that evolved with my changing needs. Here’s how I managed to stay balanced through the whirlwind that is grad school.
Walking It Out
After a long day of work and classes, nothing cleared my mind quite like taking a walk. These strolls became my sanctuary – a time to breathe, reflect, and let go of the day's stress. Whether it was a brisk walk through a nearby park or a leisurely pace around my neighborhood, this simple activity helped me decompress and reconnect with myself. Walking not only improved my physical health but also provided mental clarity and emotional relief.
The Power of Flowers
Another small but significant act of self-care was buying flowers from the grocery store. There’s something inherently uplifting about fresh blooms; they brought a bit of nature’s beauty into my living space and served as a cheerful reminder that life exists beyond textbooks and deadlines. Seeing a vase of vibrant flowers on my desk or kitchen table instantly brightened my mood and made my surroundings feel more inviting.
Hydration and Caffeine Balance
As much as I loved my coffee, I realized that reducing my caffeine intake and increasing my water consumption made a world of difference in how I felt. Less caffeine meant fewer jitters and crashes, while more water kept me hydrated and focused. This balance was crucial for maintaining my energy levels and overall well-being. By paying attention to my body's needs, I was able to sustain my productivity without sacrificing my health.
Nostalgic Comfort
Sometimes, all I needed was a good dose of nostalgia. Watching movies and shows from my childhood or early years provided a comforting escape from the pressures of grad school. These moments of relaxation allowed me to recharge mentally and emotionally, offering a much-needed break from the rigors of academic life. Engaging with familiar and beloved media brought a sense of security and joy, helping me unwind after intense study sessions.
The Magic of Music
Music played an essential role in my self-care routine. I listened to music constantly—in the car, at work, and while cleaning. Since I spent a lot of time commuting, I created several playlists that were either uplifting or had a nostalgic vibe. There’s nothing like hearing an old song that you really loved but haven't heard in years; it can transport you back to a simpler time and evoke powerful positive emotions. Music became a tool for managing stress, boosting my mood, and keeping me motivated throughout the day.
Spirituality and Reflection
In addition to these practical self-care strategies, spirituality provided a deeper layer of support. Occasionally, I utilized a prayer journal that I created, where I expressed gratitude to my higher power or asked for guidance and support. This practice helped me maintain a sense of connection and purpose, reminding me that I was part of something larger than myself. Writing in my prayer journal was a grounding activity that provided comfort during challenging times and reinforced my faith and resilience.
Looking Forward to Something Special
Towards the end of my graduate journey, I found myself needing something more to look forward to than just graduation. I realized that having an event or experience on the horizon could boost my morale and keep me motivated. So, I bought concert tickets for a show happening around the time my program was wrapping up. This gave me a tangible reward to anticipate and an exciting experience to look forward to, beyond the academic milestone. Planning for this event added a layer of excitement and joy to my routine, making the final stretch of my studies more bearable.
Conclusion
Self-care during grad school wasn’t about sticking to a rigid routine of pampering activities. It was about listening to my needs and adapting my self-care practices accordingly. Whether it was a walk in the park, a bouquet of flowers, mindful hydration, indulging in nostalgic media, enjoying music, or engaging in spiritual reflection, each act of self-care played a vital role in maintaining my sanity and well-being. Remember, self-care is personal and ever-changing. Find what feeds your soul, and let it guide you through the challenging yet rewarding journey of grad school.
