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3 Ways to Practice Mindfulness as a College Student

While starting college is a fun and exciting experience, it is also a time that requires a new set of skills to make sure you are always at the top of your game. Don’t forget that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Here are a few of my favorite ways to practice mindfulness while balancing college life!

Set Attainable Goals!

Setting goals in both your academic and professional life is crucial to the progression of your academic career. Without goals, there would be nothing to achieve! It is important, though, to understand what your boundaries are and how you can be successful within them. Consider writing down where you are now, where you’d like to be by the end of the semester and how you can get there. Remember, small progress is still progress!

Meditate!

Meditation looks different for everybody, so take the time to find what works for you. I like to find a quiet spot, sit with my back straight and spend 5 to 10 minutes breathing and centering myself with where I am. Making time to breathe out your worries, frustrations and fears is a great way to keep your mind at ease. If you don’t know where to start, the Student Wellness Center offers Guided Meditation online.

Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; it is a readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.  Gratitude is also the awareness of your life’s position, while being thankful for its circumstances.

Let's be real: college is hard. Sometimes life throws a curveball and you have to figure out how to manage. Luckily, keeping a level head about the things you can’t control is a superpower you can cultivate. Consistently making the choice to focus on things that you can improve, things you are happy about and things you are looking forward to will drastically change your outlook on each day.


Success looks different for everybody, so don’t get so caught up in what everybody else is doing that you forget what you are meant to do. Consider using these practices to keep yourself grounded and mindful while pursuing success in your academic career. Remember, balance is key.

Take care of yourselves, Gamecocks! 


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