Wednesday, 9 November 2016

University 101: Lack of Sleep

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I have been back at University just over a month - I have transferred to a new University and I have settled in with my class and enjoying it. However, now it has really hit that deadlines will be begin to start approaching, lectures are heating up and briefs are coming at me like no business. Alongside that, as I do an art subject (graphic design) we have two end of year shows to raise money and plan for! All in all it is busy busy busy and with that comes lack of sleep, feeling tired and no energy! I have been really feeling it - so I have taken to the internet to find any handy tips in order to improve sleep or boost lack of energy as it work load piles on! 

1. Get yourself on a schedule
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I know it seems tempting to stay up all night doing research or to begin writing that essay but in all honesty when you look at it once you are awake, it will not make sense and you would have ended up wasting precious sleeping time on work you have to now bin - believe me I have done this and binned an entire sk
etchbook! Set a descent bedtime - even if you do not go to sleep straight away, spend time relaxing away from the books and the computer. Listen to music, read a book or watch a tv show or film. Get up at a good time each day - especially when you are getting up early for a lecture or class, make sure you have time to eat breakfast, get yourself ready for the day and check your bag, making sure you have the right stuff for the day ahead. Believe me - you will feel better about it.

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2. Drink plenty of water
This is my downfall - I have addicted to Diet Coke and will always choose it over a bottle or glass of water. Now I am back at university I am trying to drink more water during the day when I'm in my classes - it's a struggle but I feel the benefit of drinking plenty of water. Getting enough water keeps you hydrated, makes sure your bladder is functioning and also can improve those dark circles under your eyes. It's important to keep your insides healthy as well as your outside. 





3. Taking breaks
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If like me you use the computer for most of your university work, then it's a good idea to take breaks in between. Staring at the computer screen for several hours at a time and strain your eyes, causing headaches, sore necks and can make you even more tired. For every hour you spend on the computer, take 5-10 minutes break away - good timing to make sure your water is topped up and maybe even have a loo break! 



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4. Getting fresh air! 
Now as students I know we are allergic to the outside - and we like to keep inside in the warm and artificial lighting, it is also good to get some fresh air. At lunch time, take the time to step outside and get some fresh air. Breathing in Fresh air helps with brain function and can help when you have those periods in the day where you are beginning to feel tired. This could also be one of your breaks from the computer. 
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5. Eat
Make sure you are eating during the day. Do not skip meals, make sure to have breakfast and lunch - these will help when feeling tired and also when you are feeling low in energy. Go for foods which release energy slowly rather than foods that give you short bursts of energy i.e sweets, chocolate etc. This is what I was bad at, reaching for sugar filled stuff rather than slow releasing energy food. 




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6. Remove Stress
Stress it a major cause of lack of sleep and energy. Every uni student goes those stressful moments especially when the work piles on. If the stress is affecting your sleep and even your work then do not keep it to yourself. Talk to someone, friends, family or even your tutors - they are all willing to listen and give you support. If you do not want to talk to one of those then find out if your university has a councillor or even speak to your Doctor. 




I hope these tips help. These are things I have started to do in order to improve my nights sleep and I thought I would pass them on in order to help someone else who might be struggling with lack of sleep and energy. 

In the end, you will do it!

Until Next Time, 

Becky xxxx

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