【推荐1】When scrolling through TikTok, I often come across videos suggesting products to improve my self-care routine.    1     Here are some ways I practice self-care that I believe can truly improve overall mental wellness.

Appreciate the outdoors

It is easy to feel uninspired if you spend most of your time in a small bedroom or dorm. Be intentional about spending time outdoors by going on a walk or having a picnic.    2       I find prioritizing time in the daylight to be especially important to keep me feeling grounded.

Practice regular gratitude and forgiveness

When I am intentional about being thankful for the small things in life, I have much more energy to handle the more difficult parts of my day. Giving grace to the people around me also helps me become a better person.     3    This will go far in the way you view and treat yourself.

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While it may seem obvious, I find it essential to participate in activities that energize me, as so much of my day as a student can feel stressful. If going to class is something that makes you really anxious, be sure to set aside some time to do a sport or create art in a way that makes you feel inspired or at peace.

Care for those around you

Self-care is often viewed through a lens that we must be focusing on individual improvement. From my experience, turning inward often leads to negative emotions.    5    Cook something to share with your friends and remind your loved ones of how much they mean to you. Prioritizing your relationships will change the way you feel about yourself.

【推荐2】How to Survive Your Weekends Alone Without Losing It

There can be many, many stories behind weekends spent alone. In the 4 years that I’ve been living on my own now, I’ve managed to spend 208 weekends alone.     1     . Here’s an honest and practical guide so that you, too, can deal with your weekends, alone.

Go to a free concert

Coffee shops, libraries and local venues often host free concerts, so see if there is anything going on in your area this weekend. You can really listen to the music, rather than worrying about where your friends are.

Visit a bookstore

If you live near a library or bookstore with seating, take a trip there for a fun day alone.     2     . This is the perfect weekend plan if you are a little low on money.

Take a shopping trip alone

Ease down your shopping stress.     3     , and you can end up missing out on the best clothes. Take a leisurely trip alone and take your time trying everything on: you are likely to have a great day and find something you love.

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The best part about watching television alone is that you can watch whatever you want. As a couch potato, you put on your cozy clothes and get some snacks, no matter how shameful and embarrassing it is.

Go on a long walk or a hike

Going for a long walk and experiencing nature is often more enjoyable if you are alone, as it is peaceful, quiet, and relaxing. You can stop to appreciate every beautiful flower you pass and you can take a break whenever you want.     5     .

【推荐1】Active Listening: A Key Skill for Effective Communication

Active listening is a communication skill that goes beyond simply hearing words and involves fully taking part and understanding the speaker’s message. Importantly, it is a significant part in effective communication.     1     Here are some strategies to improve your active listening skills.

Give full attention to the speaker. Active listening requires being fully present in the conversation, observing the speaker’s body language, and facial expressions to avoid negative responses. It also requires listening to the speaker with all your senses, including sight, sound and so on.     2     For example, when you are chatting, put away your cellphones or stay away from a funny TV show.

Maintain good eye contact with the conversation partner. When taking part in active listening, making eye contact is especially important.     3     However, if we fix our eyes on your conversation partners all the time, it will make them embarrassed, which will probably end the conversation. To avoid it, follow the 50/70 rule, which means keeping eye contact for 50% to 70% of the time spent listening, holding contact for four to five seconds before looking away.

    4     Active listening involves asking follow-up questions, or summarizing the main points to show that we have paid attention. Additionally, reflecting on their words and offering proper responses can help create a productive dialogue. Responding should be supportive and respectful, allowing for further discussion and deeper understanding.

By actively listening, we can create stronger connections, and promote trust and respect in our relationships. Remember, active listening goes beyond simply hearing.     5