Self-love is extremely important, especially as a college student. Doing things that provide you with peace and happiness helps improve your mental health and can lead you to success! Here are some great ways to celebrate self-love.
1. Walk around campus
SIU’s campus is filled with so many beautiful sights. Taking a walk always helps me relax. By walking around the 2-mile campus lake trail, you will also get your steps in. Personally, I love to walk around campus at night but be sure to bring a flashlight! It gets dark quickly.
2. Treat yourself with a spa day
Getting a massage or facial is so worth it! It can reduce anxiety, help improve sleep, and lower stress levels. They are perfect for both men and women. There are many places in Carbondale that offer massages and facials. Check these out on Google. You will leave the spa feeling like a new man/woman!
3. Visit The Dawg Lounge
The Dawg Lounge is the perfect place to go to celebrate self-love! It is located in the Student Health Center. It consists of three private relaxation rooms with massage chairs and other accessories, a coloring station, light and biofeedback machines, and monthly Downward Dog yoga. Visit the support dogs offered here on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
4. Go see a movie
Watching a movie is one of my favorite ways to relax. This can be done by yourself or with others. There are two movie theaters in Carbondale. I recommend going to see Heart Eyes in theaters. This is a horror movie, so if you aren’t a fan of horror, try out Love Hurts instead.
5. Buy yourself a coffee or tea
Treat yourself with a coffee or tea after a long day/week! You deserve it. On campus, you can visit Starbucks in the Student Center or Delyte’s in Morris Library. My go-to coffee order is an iced white mocha with cold foam and caramel drizzle. If you are a coffee lover, I highly recommend it! If not, order a chai with cold foam or peach green tea.
6. Exercise at the Student Recreation Center
Exercising helps build confidence and remove any mental obstacles that you may have. Luckily, SIU’s REC Center gives students free access to group fitness classes, a swimming pool, 2 tracks, cardio equipment, 3 weight rooms, a rock wall, and a sauna.
These places can help you relax and celebrate self-love. If you don’t want to go alone, bring a friend along! Enjoy a day (or week) full of prioritizing you.
