Not all leprechauns drink beer: How to stay safe while smoking marijuana

As cannabis becomes increasingly normalized and legally accessible in many parts of Canada, university students may find themselves navigating new social situations where marijuana use is common. While some students choose not to use cannabis at all, others may decide to try it recreationally. Regardless of personal choice, understanding how to stay safe and make informed decisions is essential for protecting your health, academic success, and overall well-being.

Know the Law and Campus Policies
Before smoking marijuana, it is important to understand both federal and provincial laws, as well as your university’s policies. Although cannabis is legal for adults in Canada, there are still restrictions around age limits, public consumption, and where smoking is allowed. Many campuses prohibit smoking in residences or near buildings, and violating these policies could result in disciplinary consequences. Being informed helps you avoid unnecessary risks. You can always find out the rules and restrictions around cannabis use by doing a simple Google search or looking on your university’s website. When on the Orillia campus, it is a marijuana-free campus; if you wish to smoke, you must leave the property. If you wish to look into this information more, the link is attached. 

Smoking on premises policy 

 

Start Low and Go Slow
If you choose to smoke marijuana, especially for the first time, moderation is key. Cannabis affects everyone differently, depending on body chemistry, tolerance, and potency. Start with a small amount and wait to see how your body reacts before consuming more. High-potency cannabis can lead to anxiety, dizziness, nausea, or paranoia, particularly for new users. Taking it slow allows you to maintain control and reduce the chance of an unpleasant experience.

 

Avoid Mixing with Alcohol or Other Substances
One of the most common safety risks among students is combining cannabis with alcohol or other drugs. Mixing substances can intensify impairment, increase the likelihood of accidents, and make it harder to recognize your limits. If you choose to use cannabis, avoid drinking at the same time and be cautious about any medications that may interact negatively.

 

Choose a Safe Environment
Your surroundings matter. Use cannabis in a comfortable, familiar setting with people you trust rather than in unfamiliar or high-pressure environments. Being around supportive friends can help you feel safer and ensure someone is available if you begin to feel unwell. Avoid smoking alone, especially if you are inexperienced.

 

Never Drive or Attend Class While Impaired
Cannabis can slow reaction time, affect judgment, and reduce concentration for several hours after use. Driving while impaired is dangerous and illegal, and it also places others at risk. Similarly, attending lectures, writing exams, or completing assignments while high can negatively impact academic performance. Plan so you have time to sober up before responsibilities.

Protect Your Mental and Physical Health
Students experiencing anxiety, depression, or high stress should be especially cautious. Cannabis can sometimes worsen mental health symptoms or trigger panic reactions. Pay attention to how you feel during and after use. If cannabis begins to interfere with sleep, motivation, relationships, or schoolwork, it may be time to reassess your habits or seek support from campus health services. You can receive support with your health and wellness team for free while you’re a Lakehead student. Some of the resources we provide to students include speaking to a Counsellor, visiting with our nurse practitioner, and other supports are provided within the WellU key, which all students have access to through the Lakehead website.

WellU Key

Look Out for Yourself and Others
University life is built on community. Check in with friends, respect personal boundaries, and never pressure someone to participate. If someone feels sick, stay calm, help them stay hydrated, and seek medical assistance if symptoms worsen.

Ultimately, staying safe while smoking marijuana comes down to informed choices, moderation, and respect—for yourself, others, and your environment. By approaching cannabis use responsibly, students can reduce harm and maintain a healthier, more balanced university experience.

 

- Sarah Andrew, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

 

 

 

A Guide to Looking for a Summer Job

Finding a job in the summer can be overwhelming. It is important to remember that you are not
alone and everybody is on a different journey. Even if sometimes it feels like you may be behind,
you’ve got this! Here are some tips for finding a summer job.

Update your Resume:

Make sure that you have an up-to-date resume that includes your skills and accomplishments.
There are plenty of free resources for resume help if you’re unsure. These include free videos
on YouTube and resume services offered by Lakehead!

  • Ensure that your resume meets formatting requirements
  • Ensure you are listing relevant skills and experience
  • Remember, you’re a student, it’s okay if your resume isn’t stacked!

Apply, Apply, Apply:
You may not always meet every single requirement for every job. That’s okay! Look at the job
description and, if you meet most of the requirements, apply away! There is no harm in trying.

Use All Your Resources:
Check a variety of different job boards and postings. Even check Lakehead for roles that may be
offered! Don’t keep all your eggs in one basket. See what is being offered on a variety of
different job boards.

Networking:
There is no shame in networking; it is actually a very important part of finding employment! Ask
your peers how they found their jobs, attend networking events (they are both online and
in-person!), and attend career fairs. Make yourself known and available for work!

Connect with Career Services

Lakehead's Career Services department is here to help you! They provide skillbuilding workshops, career fairs and netowrking events, and support with building your job search skills.

Visit the Career Services website to learn more, or attend a Career Zone drop in for support.

  • Career Zone Thunder Bay (Fall & Winter Terms): Open Monday - Thursday from 1pm - 4pm. Located in Room UC 0020-B
  • Career Zone Orillia (Fall & Winter Terms): Drop in services every Wednesday from 2-4:30pm in the Orsi Learning Commons

...and remember

Even if you’re working, looking for work, or out of work, you deserve self-care. Your mental and
physical well-being is important. Remember, life is never perfect. Care for yourself and
remember that you are hardworking, dedicated, and worthy!

- Jordan Calleja, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Your Midterm Glow-Up: Spaces, Snacks, and Sweeter Habits

Midterms during the winter semester can feel heavier than the fall semester. The days are actually shorter, motivation is at an all-time low, and the deadlines seem to stack up against you all at once. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone! I’m in the same boat. The good news is that some small changes to your study space, habits, and fuel can make a huge difference! So easy for me to say, but I promise these small changes made a difference in my grind time and could help you, too. 

Here are some ways to set yourself up for a healthier, more focused midterm season. 

Choose a Study Space That Matches Your Energy

Where you study matters more than you think! Your environment can either help you focus or drain your energy. 

Deep Focus Spots:

  • When you’re working on something heavy, like memorization or writing a huge paper, choose a quiet space to settle in. A great spot on our Thunder Bay campus would be the quiet library floors or a study room. You can book out a study room in advance on the library website to secure a spot!

  • Try to sit near natural light if possible. During the winter months, even a small amount of daylight can boost your mood and alertness! There are so many spaces on campus with our beautiful big windows to study near. 

When You’re Feeling Unmotivated:

  • On those low-energy days, studying around other people can help. Spaces like “The Study” or “The Outpost” at the Thunder Bay campus are great spots to study. 

  • Sometimes this is called “body doubling,” which means being around others can help you stay on task. 

When You’re Mentally Tired:

  • If your brain feels a little foggy, a change of scenery might help more than forcing yourself to keep going. I find that when I watch my shows at my desk and then try to study, I have a hard time keeping on task, so I move. Try moving to a different building, sitting near a window, or taking a 10-minute reset walk. 

  • Resetting your environment can reset your focus. 

Study Habits That Actually Work

Midterms are very stressful, but studying longer doesn't necessarily mean studying better. 

Use Focus Blocks:

  • Try the 50/10 method 

    • 50 minutes of studying or working 

    • Then a 10-minute break 

  • Repeat this cycle two or three times, then take a longer break. Short, more structured sessions can help prevent burnout and improve memory. 

Start With the Hardest Task:

  • Your brain has the most energy when you’re just starting your study session, so tackle the subject or work you’ve been avoiding. 

  • I know it sucks to hear, but finishing up these harder tasks can reduce anxiety and build momentum. 

Avoid All-Nighters (if you can):

  • It may feel productive to stay up late, but sleep is essential for memory. Without enough rest, your brain can’t store information the way you want. This may not be the case for everyone, but it is for most, so get your sleep!

  • Protecting your sleep is one of the most effective study strategies you have. 

Brain Dump 

  • If you’re feeling overwhelmed and you have so much to do and you don’t know where to start, try writing down everything you need to do before you start studying. I know for my brain, it helps me to make a to-do list of only the things I want to accomplish in that session, not everything I need to do for the month. 

  • Getting it out of your head and onto paper reduces stress and helps you focus on one task at a time. 

Snacks That Support Your Focus 

What you eat while studying actually affects your energy levels. 

Good Study Snacks:

  • Trail mix or nuts 

  • Greek yogurt

  • Apples with peanut butter (my personal favourite)

  • Hummus and vegetables 

  • Whole-grain crackers

  • Dark chocolate (in moderation)

Try to drink water consistently throughout your sessions! Dehydration can increase fatigue and headaches, especially during those long study sessions. 

A Note on Caffeine:

  • Caffeine can help in moderation, but too much caffeine can increase your anxiety, disrupt your sleep, and cause energy crashes. If you’re already stressed out, adding multiple energy drinks may make it worse. 

  • Balance caffeine with water and regular meals.

Protect Your Mental Energy:

Midterms are important, but they are not the measure of your worth. 

  • Take real breaks, such as stretching, walking, or talking to a loved one. 

  • Move your body between study blocks.

  • Avoid comparing your productivity to others. 

  • Reach out for support if stress feels overwhelming (Student Health and Wellness is a great support!)

Winter semester can feel so heavy and stressful, but you don’t have to power through it all alone. Small adjustments in your space, routine and habits can make studying feel a little more manageable. Midterms are temporary. Taking care of yourself while preparing for them will help you perform better and feel better in the process. 

-Kayla McAdam, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

 

More Than Romance: What Healthy Relationships Really Look Like

I feel like there’s a spotlight on relationships during February. There’s Valentine’s Day, and you’ve either been living or been around the same people for almost 6 months (that's a long time!). You see all this stuff on social media of couples’ things, romantic gestures, as well as galentines, and it can be a lot. Relationships aren’t just about being a couple; they also mean relationships with friends, family, classmates, teammates, and even yourself. Those everyday relationships often shape our lives more than one fancy date ever could. Instead of making this month about pressure and perfection, let’s take a second to chat about what healthy relationships actually look like. 

Healthy Relationships Aren’t Perfect - They are Respectful

Some signs of a healthy relationship include:

  • Open and honest communication

  • Respect for boundaries and personal space

  • Mutual support during hard times 

  • Trust without constant need for reassurance and monitoring 

  • Feeling comfortable being authentically you

If you’re always feeling anxious, stressed, or uncomfortable around someone, it might be worth paying attention to. 

That February pressure is so real and so unrealistic. Valentine’s Day can make people feel like they are missing out on something if they’re single, they're not in that “perfect relationship,” or they don’t have a big group of friends to celebrate with. I feel it too. Relationships don’t follow this calendar; there is no universal time for love or having a connection. 

Healthy Relationships Grow Through:

  • Share experiences

  • Honest conversations

  • Consistency, not grand gestures (but both can be good too!)

  • Small moments of care 

Being single does not mean you’re alone; having strong friendships or connections matters just as much. 

Friendships Are Relationships Too

Sometimes we overlook our friendships and connections during February because of this massive pressure to be in a relationship. 

Some signs of a healthy friendship:

  • Support without competition 

  • Saying no without guilt 

  • Celebrating eachothers successes 

  • Respecting differences in schedules and energy levels

Sometimes, a quick text or phone call check-in can mean more than an expensive gift. 

Don’t Forget That Relationship With Yourself 

This month is a great time to check in with yourself, too. Taking that time for self-care can actually help others around you at the same time. 

Some ways to strengthen your relationship with yourself:

  • Notice your body, energy levels, and your own needs

  • Take breaks without guilt 

  • Spend time doing things you genuinely enjoy

  • Talk to yourself with the same kindness you would to your loved ones

You deserve all the love and the best kind can be from inside yourself. 

Healthy relationships aren’t all sunshine and rainbows all the time. They are built on a solid ground of trust, communication, respect, and care for each other, whether it be romantic, platonic, or somewhere in between. This February, instead of focusing on all that stuff online and the expectations that come with it, try focusing on the relationships that make you feel supported, understood, and valued. Because healthy connections, in all forms, are worth celebrating all year round, not just one day out of the year. 

-Kayla McAdam, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

 

Winter Weight Gain Worries

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shrink, many people begin to worry about winter weight gain. Heavier meals, holiday treats, and fewer opportunities to be active can make it feel almost inevitable. Social media and diet culture often amplify these fears, turning a natural seasonal shift into a source of stress. However, understanding why winter weight changes happen, and how to approach them with balance, can ease much of that anxiety.

During winter, our routines naturally change. Colder weather often means less time outdoors and more time spent indoors, where movement can decrease. Shorter days and limited sunlight can also affect energy levels and mood, sometimes leading to increased cravings for comfort foods. These responses are not signs of weakness; they are normal human reactions to seasonal changes. Our bodies are designed to adapt, and sometimes that includes seeking warmth, rest, and nourishment.

Holiday traditions play a major role as well. Winter is filled with celebrations centered around food—family dinners, baked goods, and festive treats. Enjoying these moments is part of cultural and emotional well-being. The problem arises when enjoyment turns into guilt. Labeling foods as “bad” or feeling shame for indulging can create an unhealthy relationship with eating. Food is not a moral issue, and enjoying seasonal favorites does not erase your health goals.

One helpful way to reduce winter weight gain worries is to shift the focus away from the scale. Weight naturally fluctuates due to hydration, hormones, and changes in routine. Instead of fixating on numbers, consider how you feel. Are you getting enough sleep? Do you have energy throughout the day? Are you managing stress? These indicators of health are often more meaningful than a single measurement.

Staying active in winter doesn’t have to mean intense workouts or expensive gym memberships. Gentle movement counts. Stretching, home workouts, walking indoors, or even doing chores can help maintain both physical and mental well-being. Movement can also improve mood during darker months, making it easier to manage stress-related eating. The goal is consistency, not perfection.

Nutrition in winter is about nourishment, not restriction. Warm, comforting foods like soups, stews, and roasted vegetables can be both satisfying and nutritious. Including balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats helps stabilize energy levels and reduce intense cravings. Allowing yourself flexibility rather than strict rules makes healthy habits easier to maintain long-term.

Most importantly, practicing self-compassion is key. Winter is a season of rest and survival, not constant productivity or physical transformation. Bodies may change, and that’s okay. Worrying excessively about winter weight gain can take away from the joy and comfort this season can offer. By focusing on balance, kindness, and overall well-being, you can move through winter feeling supported rather than stressed: physically and mentally.

 - Sarah Andrew, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Beyond The Grind: How to Build a Relationship with Yourself that Actually Lasts

Whether you have constantly been the friend that gives 100% of yourself to make sure everyone around you is happy, or you feel pressured into conforming into someone you’re not to please others, it can sometimes be hard to remember who you truly are on the inside. 

While the idea of building a relationship with yourself may sound cliche or even embarrassing or awkward at some points, it really is the epitome of being able to live your own life to the fullest. When you are able to wake up every single day and solely rely on yourself to get you through the day, it can feel not only empowering, but like a breath of fresh air. 

Don’t get us wrong, having a strong support system of friends and family is very important when it comes to having a relationship with your own mental wellbeing, however, it is important to make sure that it is not the only piece of string tying you all together. 

Below are some tips to help you build a relationship with the most important person in your life, YOU. 

1. “Don’t Talk To My Friend Like That”

When speaking negatively about myself around one of my friends, they interrupted my thought with “Don’t Talk to my friend like that,” and it made such a difference in my way of thinking.  Sometimes, putting ourselves in a third person perspective can change the entirety of a thought. Next time you feel the need to think negatively about yourself, put yourself in a friends’ shoes, and think “Would I say this to them?” If we wouldn’t tell our friend something negative, why would we put that burden on ourselves? 

2. Create small boundaries for yourself

Although sometimes the word boundaries can mean separating ourselves from things, people, or even events that bring us joy, it does not always mean a complete halt from something— more so creating a safe space where you can take a healthy break without any guilt. Some examples of small boundaries include putting your phone away 30 minutes before you go to bed and opting for a book instead, or creating a separate study vs relax environment to encourage productivity. 

3. Journalling

While journaling may sound like  a cliche way of building a relationship with yourself, it truly can be a great way to not only relieve stress at the end of a long day, but it also be a great way to reflect on everything you have accomplished on your own. You are the one person who gets you through everyday, you are the only person who is responsible for you, and journaling is a great method in practicing positive self-talk in a safe and private space. 

 

Needless to say, creating a positive relationship with yourself can be incredibly rewarding. It can not only help you reflect on other relationships in your life, but it can also help you become a better you in the long run. You are the only person who will be there alongside yourself for the rest of your life. Make your childhood self proud, and be so incredibly proud of how far you have come already. 

- Makayla Foster, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

Midterm Study Tips: Avoiding Burnout

Midterms can be a stressful time. You start the semester feeling great, and everything feels manageable. Then, work starts building up, and it feels like you're drowning. You don’t know how you’re supposed to study everything while managing your own life and responsibilities. You don’t have to burn yourself out trying to manage midterms. Here are some tips and advice to help you take care of yourself while studying effectively.

Create a Schedule:

Make a schedule that works best for you. You can do this using a physical planner, an online planner, or any other method that may work for you. In your schedule, it is helpful to:   

  • Check your syllabus! See what content will be on your midterm. You don’t want to waste your time, and you don’t want to miss important content.
  • Write down everything you need to do. This includes any days you are working, any appointments you have, any studying you need to do, etc. This will help you build your schedule and will also help you organize your thoughts.   
  • Prioritize midterms you feel the least confident about, and carve out the most time for them. 
  • Build breaks into your schedule. Staring at your notes for hours does not help with active recall and memorization; it will only give you a headache. 
  • Mix up the courses and topics you are studying. This will help you avoid burnout and also ensure you are covering all content.

Study Effectively

Passively reading textbooks and slides will not help you retain information. Everybody studies differently; it is important that you know what works for you. 

  • Use active recall techniques. These include practice questions and tests, teaching out loud, and creating flashcards for important terms 
  • Put down your phone. Phones are major distractions for studying. Put your phone in a chosen focus mode, leave your phone in another room (if possible), or simply silence unimportant notifications. 
  • Study in short sessions. Set a timeline for yourself and stick to it. You don’t want to sit for hours cramming information. This won’t help you retain anything.

Knowing Signs of Burnout

Burnout occurs when stress and pressure build up. You don’t allow yourself to rest, and your body and mind reach a state beyond being tired. Know the signs of burnout:

  • Constant exhaustion 
  • Issues with memory and focus
  • Feeling irritable, sad, unmotivated, overwhelmed, etc.   
  • Getting sick often 
  • Being emotionally drained  

Use Resources Available

Knowing the resources available to you is important. On campus resources include: 

  • Student Success Center: offers academic advising, workshops, and services to maximize your success
  • Student Health and Wellness: provides a selection of mental health resources, including counselling, self-care events, and wellness initiatives
  • In-Person and Online Library: provides access to an array of sources, including textbooks, articles, and journals (don’t forget you can book study spaces!) 

You are not alone. Midterms do not have to burn you out. Remember that you are capable and can get through this!  

- Jordan Calleja, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

 

Mental Health During Heavy Deadline Weeks

Managing the pressure of deadlines at university can be stressful, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to stay on top of your work while maintaining your wellbeing. Everyone’s approach is unique, but incorporating planning, self-care, and support systems can make a big difference.

Plan Your Time

Managing your time is key to handling your workload. Writing down tasks and ordering them by urgency helps you focus on the most pressing assignments first. Creating a timetable allows you to visualize your schedule, track deadlines, and block out time for breaks. A balanced routine supports both your mental health and productivity.

Establish Realistic Goals

Set achievable academic goals and break large tasks into smaller steps. For example, focus on completing the introduction of an essay before tackling the whole paper. Smaller milestones make assignments feel manageable and help maintain motivation.

Minimize Distractions

Distractions like smartphones, TV, and unnecessary notifications can hinder productivity and increase stress. Strategies include:

  • Turning off electronics or leaving them in a separate room
  • Using apps to block distracting websites
  • Setting specific times for checking emails or social media
  • Communicating your study times to friends and family to minimize interruptions

Prioritize Sleep and Nutrition

Good-quality sleep supports learning, memory, and problem-solving. Establish a regular sleep schedule to handle academic challenges more effectively. Eating balanced meals supports energy levels, mood, and cognitive performance.

 

Take Regular Breaks

Breaks are essential to manage stress and maintain motivation. After completing a task or milestone, reward yourself with activities you enjoy, whether it’s spending time with friends, watching a film, or going for a walk. Stepping back allows you to return to your studies refreshed and focused.

Use Your Support Network

You don’t have to manage everything alone. Friends, family, tutors, and academic advisors can offer guidance, encouragement, and perspective. At Lakehead University, you can:

  • Visit the Academic Support Zone on the second floor of the library for tutoring, study strategies, and academic guidance
  • If you are registered with SAS Student Accessibility Services, you may be eligible for accommodations such as extra time on deadlines and tests to support your learning
  • Join clubs or study groups to connect with peers, share strategies, and get support from fellow students managing similar workloads

Track Your Stress

Monitoring your stress helps you manage it effectively. Rate your stress daily and note factors such as sleep, meals, caffeine, and deadlines. Patterns will emerge, allowing you to plan proactively and avoid burnout.

Adapt to Tough Weeks

Remember, the stress of university is temporary. Deadlines are just one part of your story. Block out downtime, protect your mental health, and maintain perspective. Regular reflection and adjustment help you build resilience and prevent burnout.

 

Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

The Balancing Act: Juggling Work, School, and Life Without Burning Out

Balancing university life with a part-time job can feel like a constant juggling act. Between lectures, assignments, exams, work shifts, and personal responsibilities, it is easy to feel stretched thin. For many students, working while studying is not optional; it is necessary to cover tuition, rent, groceries, or everyday expenses.
While managing school, work, and life can be challenging, it is possible to find balance without sacrificing your academic success or well-being. The key is learning how to manage your time, energy, and expectations in a realistic and compassionate way.

Why Balance Matters

Finding balance is not just about staying organized. It directly impacts your health and success.

When students are overcommitted, burnout can build quickly. Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and constant pressure can affect focus, memory, and motivation. On the other hand, maintaining balance can:

  • Improve academic performance

  • Protect your mental and physical health

  • Strengthen relationships with friends and family

  • Support personal growth and long-term goals

Finding the Right Job

Not all jobs fit well with student life. On-campus jobs often offer more flexibility and understand academic demands, making them a great option for many students. These roles may also allow quieter moments to study during shifts.

Off-campus jobs can work too, especially when employers are clear about expectations and supportive of your schedule. Being upfront about your availability and academic priorities early on can prevent stress later in the semester.

Time Management Is Key

Effective time management is one of the most important skills for balancing work and school. Using a planner, calendar, or scheduling app can help you visualize your commitments and avoid overloading your schedule.

Blocking off time for classes, work, studying, and rest, and treating study time as non-negotiable, can make busy weeks feel more manageable. It is also important to be realistic about how many work hours you can handle without impacting your academic performance.

Protecting Your Well-Being

When life gets busy, self-care is often the first thing students neglect, but it is also the most important. Lack of sleep, skipped meals, and ongoing stress can quickly take a toll.

Small habits can make a big difference:

  • Taking short breaks between classes

  • Going for a walk or getting fresh air

  • Eating regular meals

  • Getting enough sleep

  • Making time for activities that help you relax

Using campus supports can also help reduce stress. At Lakehead University, speaking with a financial adviser can help students create a realistic budget and manage expenses while balancing work and school. If stress, anxiety, or burnout become overwhelming, connecting with a therapist or mental health adviser can provide valuable support. Students can also use the WellU Key to complete a self-assessment and receive personalized recommendations for mental health services and supports available both on and off campus.

Knowing When to Ask for Help

Balancing work and academics does not mean doing everything alone. Professors, advisors, and employers are often more understanding than students expect, especially when communication is proactive.

If work hours begin to interfere with coursework or your well-being, reaching out early can help prevent bigger issues later. Balance looks different for everyone, and adjusting your schedule or commitments over time is part of the learning process, not a failure.

Final Thoughts

Working while studying is a marathon, not a sprint. While it can feel overwhelming at times, thoughtful planning, supportive environments, and attention to your well-being can help you manage both responsibilities successfully.

Remember: balance is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about finding what works best for you and allowing yourself flexibility along the way.

Reem Alfarwan, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

The Quiet Burnout of Second Semester

Second semester of school hits different. That excitement of New Year's can wear off quickly, and things start to get a little more real. Your assignments start to pile up, days are darker and colder, and suddenly you’re starting to burn out. Those super late nights, skipped workouts and walks, comfort foods, and high screen time start to feel normal, just to run from the burnout. For some students, this combination can lead to unhealthy life choices and gradual weight gain, without even realizing it. And honestly? I’ve been there. 

 

Why Second Semester Can Feel So Tough

  • Cold weather makes you want to stay indoors

  • Those shorter days can affect your energy levels and motivation

  • Academic stress can cause emotional eating and poor sleep

  • Limited schedules can cause you to get the easier/processed option of food over the nutritious one

It is not about discipline, you’re doing the best you can! It can be caused by an environment that makes those healthier choices harder to make. 

 

Tips To Stay Active During The Winter

You don’t need a perfect routine, just one that can be consistent for you.

  • Make your movement indoors-friendly: home workouts, yoga, stretching, or even some YouTube workouts

  • Use on-campus spaces: the Wolf-Den, the Hanger, wellness or workout classes, and Modo Yoga

  • Break up your sitting time: stretch, stand, or move around approximately every 20 minutes

  • Bundle up and go outside anyway: even a short walk between classes counts as movement

Movement doesn’t have to be this big, elaborate workout; it can just happen regularly. 

 

Staying Healthy Without Resisting Yourself

  • Eat regularly: skipping meals often leads to overeating later

  • Add, don’t take away: focus on adding fruits, vegetables, protein, and water instead of only removing “bad” foods

  • Plan simple, easy meals: soups, stir-fries, and slow-cooker meals can be more affordable and easier

Remember: enjoying comfort foods occasionally is a part of being human, especially during stressful times. 

 

Kayla McAdam, Peer Wellness Educator Lead

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