“Health is a state of complete harmony of the body, mind and spirit. When one is free from physical disabilities and mental distractions, the gates of the soul open” said B.K.S. Iyengar. It is important for each and every person to take care of their health. Students, especially, should take care of themselves, as good health is often associated with better academic performance and participation in co-curricular activities.
But, how can a student make sure that their health is at the optimum level or standard? Here are a few ways in which a student can practice living a healthy life.
Exercise daily or 4 days a week
Being physically active can help a person lead a healthier and happier life. People who exercise regularly are at a lower risk of developing many long-term conditions, such as heart disease, type, stroke, and old age diseases. It is therefore important that a student exercise at least 4 times a week. School authorities can play an important role as well in the development of a child’s healthy body. Physical education must be provided by the teachers to make students understand the role of exercise. According to a report published by NHA, “physical activity can also boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, clinical depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease”. It is therefore extremely important for young students to inculcate daily exercise in their everyday routine.
Co-curricular activities
Co-curricular activities such as singing, dancing, drawing, performing theatre arts, are said to increase positive emotions in the body and reduce the toxic, negative emotions in one’s mind. Therefore, the greatest benefits of co-curricular activities is that they promote mental, emotional, and physical health. They teach several lessons to students such as how to use strategy, manage time, cooperate with others, develop new skills,and be confident. According to a report by Lancet, it is proven that students who do not participate in co-curricular activities are far more likely to experience anxiety, depression and social difficulties.
Healthy Meals
It is important especially in the growing years that no meal is skipped. Students should make sure to eat at least three times a day- especially Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Certain slots should be assigned to the three meals, such as taking breakfast from 9-10 am, Lunch from 1-2 pm and Dinner at 7-8 pm. This would make sure that healthy eating is done everyday. There is a famous quote by Horace- “Healthy eating is a way of life, so it’s important to establish routines that are simple, realistically, and ultimately livable”. It is henceforth very important to schedule one’s diet. There should be an intake of essential micro and macro nutrients, vitamins, minerals and fats, for healthy development of one’s body.
It is also important to consume water and avoid chronic diseases. At least 8-10 glasses of water is a must. It helps one concentrate and also helps in avoiding the greater chances of overeating. Intake of fruits and vegetables should be good enough as well. It is especially in the growing years that a healthy diet is needed.
Role of Schools or Colleges
It is extremely important for the school authorities and administration to take care of their students’ mental health, and provide them with the support that they need. The role of schools in keeping in check the mental health of their students, says a lot about school management.
Excessive mental and physical pressure is related to increased number of student mortality in India and around the world. There has been 15% increase in the cases of suicide in the past two years. Certain education app come with
a mental health portal where the students can share their personal, social and academic problems. It is therefore important for students, their peers, family, teachers and school or college authorities to provide support and care to the students in need.
Form a Community
Community building helps in increasing the sense of security, interpersonal relationships, and enhances one’s growth and development. Connecting with one’s peers can help reduce stress and increase confidence and trust in others as well as in oneself. Asking for help can make a person relaxed and increase the chances of efficiently dealing with challenges.
Being isolated increases the chance of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. It is therefore important to build strong connections.
