Food & Fitness Factor

I'm only two months in to college life and I am beginning to realize what an impact it has on my daily schedule, not to mention my waistline. Because I take classes during the day, work part-time, and study at night, I find myself making less healthy choices for the snacks and food I eat and going to the gym less often. I guess I should not really be surprised that I've gained weight, but, it really seems to have happened quickly. As a result, I am starting to re-think what it is that I am doing, so that I can make some changes before my weight gets out of control. While there's nothing wrong with grabbing a bite at Raising Cane's once or twice a week, I need to at least be self-conscious of how physically fit I am. I have begun to substitute sodas with bottled water. Not only does it do away with empty calories, but it also helps to keep my body hydrated. I have also been trying to incorporate healthier food choices into my meals. For example, instead of having ice cream or chocolate pie for dessert, I try to eat an apple or grab a cup of yogurt. And while I still enjoy a good burger and fries every once and awhile, I realize that by making healthier selections I am becoming healthier and more fit. I've also begun to notice that more and more fast food places including McDonalds, Burger King, and Chick Filet are offering healthier selections as alternatives to fatty foods (veggie burgers, salads, fruit, yogurt).
So, while my hectic life may force me to eat more fast food, that no longer means sacrificing healthy choices for convenience.

While I used to go to the gym 3-4 days a week for a hour and a half each day, since I started college that time has slowly decreased. Because I don't have as much time to go to the gym as I used to have, I'm trying to do more exercises at home such as sit-ups and lifting hand weights. I am also tryping to go to the gym at least twice a week. I have found that I am able to fit the home exercises into my schedule more easily than I am the trips to the gym. As for staying active, I have set a goal of at least three hours of exercise every week to keep in shape. I guess the key is that a little exercise is better than no exercise.

Eco-Friendly Appeal

Out of all the recent trends of automakers and oil companies, the most widespread seems to be ecological pledges and goals for their products. Most people have seen the automobile commercials that focus on fuel efficient capabilities of new vehicle models or the oil companies bragging how their scientific research can lead to improvement in auto emissions. While I applaud their efforts to present "green" products to consumers, I have to ask, "Why did it take so long?" In reality, I see their efforts as no more than a marketing ploy similar to that of the "fat-free" craze. To me these automakers and oil companies are jumping on the "green" bandwagon simply to rack up major profits by appealing to consumers who are looking for ways to live greener lifestyles. I question their motives -- is it because they are concerned about the planet or their bottom line?

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

As a college student, I'd like to discuss something humans do every day -- Sleep. You may ask "What does sleep have to do with college?" Well, I found out for myself that sleep is extremely important to being successful in college. Last Saturday I stayed up until about 4:00 a.m. just chilling out on the computer and watching T.V. Although I was up by noon Sunday, all day long I just felt out of sorts and sluggish. When I tried sit down and work on my reading and homework for school, I couldn't seem to focus on what I was doing. By the time Sunday evening rolled around, I hadn't completed any of the assignments I had planned to do that day and felt like the whole day had been a total waste. Suffice it to say that I was angry with myself. Had the next day not been Labor Day -- thereby giving me an extra day to complete my school work -- I would have been sunk. It was at that point that I realized in order for me to function at 100 percent, I would need to get my body on a schedule. That meant going to bed and getting up at set times.

I know this sounds boring for an 18 year old to be saying this, but, when you think about it, sleep serves as one of our major sources of energy. It rejuvenates the body and eases the mind. When we sleep we are storing energy that is essential to carrying out our important schedules and daily tasks. Without being well rested--that is to say getting 7-8 hours of sleep a night --you can feel weakened, lethargic, unfocused and miserable. Moreover, sleep can determine whether you stay focused and relaxed throughout the day or ill productive and sloppy. For tests, quizzes and other large projects you'll need every ounce of energy you can muster. If you're unable to understand simple directions you won't understand the problems. Lack of sleep can also impair your study habits and concentration. That is why overnight study sessions are counter productive. Think about it, I mean what good is cramming for a test when you aren't able to concentrate on the day of the test?

The best way to ensure a good night sleep is to set a respective bedtime and time to wake up; finish any school work in a timely manner; and not drink caffeinated drinks late at night. These are simple tips anyone can do to maintain healthy lifestyle and be a better student.

Adaptive Instinct

When an organism enters a new environment, that organism undergoes physiological changes so that it is better suited to it's surroundings. This process supports our wellbeing in many ways other than survival. It is known as adaptation and allows ourselves to thrive on a constantly changing planet.
In today's world we are more dependent on psychological changes that allow ourselves to blend in with social groups. These adaptations serve to establish a self-identity and association to people we can relate to.