Like many freshmen on campus, I got sick this week. That meant that all gym sessions and runs were canceled as I was struggling to stay alive. Along with my first exam in college being this week (in organic chemistry!!! Ahhhh scary!!!), let’s just say I didn’t do much physically. But that’s okay, as I was out of breath walking to every class and the dreaded stairs cost me the sensation of passing out every time. There was no time to wait for the elevator because I was already running late since I must pry myself out of bed for an 8 am that felt like a 4 am. Being sick on campus is no fun, as your mom isn’t here to take care of you, and the carefree aspect of senior year and “skipping school” isn’t relevant. Additionally, I felt bad for my roommate, as if I were in her shoes, I would want me to get as far away as possible. All this adding up with one of my busiest weeks workload wise, I struggled every day, pushing every assignment off so I could squeeze in some more o chem review.
This situation gives me a great opportunity to talk about the benefits of an athletic vacation. Situations like this are inevitable, and you (and I) should not stress over not being able to go to the gym. There have been many times in my life, mainly during varsity sports seasons, where I pushed through practices despite being ill. When you desperately need an athletic vacation, but you don’t allow for one, it is mentally and physically draining, and will ultimately kill your motivation in the long run.
Here are some ways that I use to fuel my athletic vacation and ease me back into working out when the time feels right. These are good for whether you’re sick or not.
- Tea! I know you might not be a tea person, but there are so many types you can try. I like this because I feel like its low-cost fun. The dining halls have various teabags and what fun it is to try a different one every time. They’re also very easy to slip into your pocket if you want it for later. My personal favorites have been green tea and hibiscus.
2. Online shopping: I know this can be dangerous, but I love finding a good deal online. Shopping for athletic clothes and shoes can help motivate you to start using such equipment at the gym. Here are some cute sneakers and shorts that are on sale that I’ve been keeping my eye on.
3. Planning: I love my agenda and post-it notes. Planning out what events, classes, assignments, etc coming up can make you feel prepared and organized. Perhaps plan in workouts in the future.
Hope you’re feeling better! I think an athletic vacation is super important to get back in the game faster. I like how you took this opportunity to share the ways that you used to feel better. I also totally agree on the online shopping part, that always helps haha
Nothing wrong with a nice vacation! It’s important to rest when we are sick because otherwise we would just be prolonging or worsening the sickness period anyway. Plus, the more studying the better the score! Hope you are feeling better and the o chem exam went well!
I understand completely what it’s like to be sick in college, it’s the worst thing ever. You have no energy and no one to cook you chicken noodle soup and wait on you hand and foot like when you’re at home. Being sick makes you miss home more than ever. All that being said, I am so glad you pushed through with all your classes, homework, and exams. You also found things that can be helpful when sick instead of just waiting for the illness to go away. I hope you feel better soon!