Summer break is finally here! Time to trade in those textbooks for poolside lounging and late-night movie marathons. But before you dive headfirst into full-on relaxation mode, consider this: summer break is also a fantastic opportunity to establish some healthy habits that will benefit you throughout the year, including when you return to The Global College Madrid (TGC) in the autumn.
Why Focus on Wellbeing During Summer Break?
TGC’s Wellbeing Program emphasises the importance of healthy habits for student success, and that applies not just during the academic year, but throughout life. Summer break offers a unique chance to establish routines around nutrition and exercise in a more relaxed and flexible way. You’ll have more control over your schedule and can experiment with different activities to find what works best for you.
Fuelling Your Body for Summer Fun
Let’s face it, summer is packed with adventures – from beach trips to sports tournaments. To keep your energy levels up for all these activities, you need to prioritize good nutrition. Here are some tips:
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Swap sugary drinks for water:
Staying hydrated is key, especially during warmer months. Ditch the sugary sodas and juices and opt for refreshing water with slices of fruit or cucumber for a natural flavour boost.
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Make friends with fruits and veggies:
Aim for a rainbow on your plate! Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that will keep you feeling energised and support a healthy immune system.
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Plan and prep healthy snacks:
Avoid unhealthy vending machine temptations by packing healthy snacks like chopped fruits, nuts, or yoghurt. Planning ahead will ensure you have nutritious options readily available.
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Don’t skip meals:
Skipping meals can lead to energy crashes and unhealthy snacking later. Aim for regular meals and snacks throughout the day to keep your metabolism going strong.
Moving Your Body for a Healthy Mind and Body
Exercise isn’t just about physical health; it also plays a crucial role in mental wellbeing. Here are some ways to stay active during summer break:
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Find an activity you enjoy:
Explore different sports, dance classes, or outdoor activities like hiking or swimming. When you choose something you genuinely enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with it.
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Turn everyday activities into exercise:
Take the stairs instead of the elevator, go for a bike ride to run errands, or have an active dance party in your room.
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Buddy up for workouts:
Exercising with a friend or family member can make it more fun and motivating.
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Make it a challenge:
Set small, achievable fitness goals and track your progress. Completing a challenge can be a great confidence booster!
Building Habits for Long-Term Success
Remember, developing healthy habits takes time and consistency. Don’t get discouraged if you have a setback. The key is to find a routine that works for you and gradually incorporate these positive changes into your life.
Here are some additional tips for building lasting habits:
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Start small:
Don’t try to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Begin with small, manageable changes that you can gradually build upon.
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Set realistic goals:
Setting unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and discouragement. Start with small, achievable targets and celebrate your progress along the way.
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Find your support system:
Let your friends and family know about your goals and enlist their support. Having a cheerleader in your corner can make a big difference.
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Reward yourself:
Celebrate your achievements! Rewarding yourself for reaching your goals will help you stay motivated and on track.
The Global College Madrid: Supporting Your Wellbeing Journey
At The Global College, we understand the importance of student wellbeing. Our comprehensive Wellbeing Programme, overseen by the IE Center for Health, Wellbeing, and Happiness, equips students with the knowledge and tools they need to make healthy choices and develop a growth mindset. Through workshops, activities, and personalised mentoring, TGC fosters an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential, both inside and outside the classroom.
So, this summer break, embrace the opportunity to prioritise your health and wellbeing. Experiment with new activities, discover what makes you feel good, and establish healthy habits that will fuel your success, not just during the summer months, but throughout your academic journey at TGC and beyond.
