Facing the Virtual Reality

While the chiming bells, cool morning breeze, and never-ending stairs of Doral Hall have been replaced by a simple desk, computer camera, and zoom app, it still feels as if a normal day at school was a lot more manageable. After all, encounters with your friends at school made it all worthwhile—but a breakout room does no justice to social interaction. In fact, it is not just students who have to re-figure out this new “normal,” but teachers too; although we are no strangers to virtual learning, the last few months of the academic year were easier to manage than the first few. Once again, we are back to where we started—stressed, not knowing how long this may last. Even parents are feeling the burden of online school, as many are working from home alongside their children. However, with such a change we must prioritize what matters most: our health. Whether it be physical, mental, or spiritual, it is crucial that we take care of our well-being. To students, teachers, and parents, here are a few ways you can begin this academic season without falling prey to the stress.

You Are What You Eat

Yes, most definitely a cliche, but nonetheless true. I myself have not been eating as well once school reopened; oftentimes, I woke up too late to eat breakfast and went to sleep without supper. And while it may seem that there is less time to eat than ever before, it is crucial that you prioritize your bodily health—and that is highly reflected through your diet. If you take a while to get up before school begins, set your alarm at least 45 minutes to an hour before you have to log in; that way, you will have at least 20 to 30 minutes for breakfast. While this might mean that you won’t have as much sleep the night before, you will probably feel tired much earlier than you usually do and go to sleep at the RIGHT bedtime (let’s not pretend midnight hasn’t become the new “9pm” over the summer). Whatever you do, do not forget to eat!

Make Sleep Your Best Friend

BUT, I don’t have time??!!

Yes, I know; as we try to figure out everything that is going on around us, we lose track of time and end up going to sleep much later than we should be. However, ask yourself why. Analyze the small, consistent distractions that end up taking away a fraction of your time. Find ways to minimize them or eradicate them altogether. You will be surprised how much time you have to dedicate only for sleep. Personally, apart from regular social media (the usual killer for most), I found that WhatsApp is extremely addictive; considering that friends are no longer there to support you throughout school, you most likely feel the need to text, call, or Facetime them—and that is understandable. However, texting your friends for over two hours is equivalent to the same amount of time you spend on TikTok; it is always best to keep it at a minimum. Now more than ever, we must find ways to regenerate our health and pay very close attention to our sleeping schedules.

Plan It Out!

If you did not use a planner before the pandemic, you MUST use one now. Whether it be through a virtual or physical format, having a place to store all of your deadlines, homework, meetings, and anything in between is essential to your sanity. Be nice to yourself. Realize that there are more tasks to learn as we enter the virtual space, so keeping an agenda and checking it regularly will allow you to feel much better throughout the day. In fact, you could even keep sticky notes in front of your desk for a variety of information that you use on a daily basis, so keep that in mind as you organize yourself. Realize that this is an amazing opportunity to become independent and learn how to take matters into your own hands, so use this to build resilience and coordination.

Communicate

It may be difficult; in fact, it may feel impossible. Although you might not feel motivated enough to communicate your struggles, know that there are peers who are offering help and guidance. If you are a student, you are not alone. Communicate with your teachers during office hours if you need extra help; speak to your counselors in case you feel down or simply want someone to listen. Remember that everyone is facing the same color, just a different shade—so know that if you simply voice your concerns, you will be met with lots of compassion.

Take Yourself Outside

Go on a walk! It is extremely important for your body to not be sitting behind a desk 24/7. I am sure you have heard this before, but it never hurts to hear it again. As much as you might have despised Doral Hall’s infinite stairway, those stairs kept you active—and that is exactly what your body needs right now. You don’t need to run, though I highly encourage it, but at least take a walk outside every day for thirty minutes to an hour. It is the easiest way to promote serotonin and maintain your well-being, so don’t overlook the importance of daily exercise!

Be patient—not just with the situation at-hand, but with yourself as well. Although we are all facing the same reality, we don’t all share the same circumstances. You know yourself better than an article does; do what is best for you and what advances your well-being. Know that this is not permanent, so try your best to endure these times. Stay strong and believe in your own ability to maintain a balance—don’t let the pressure of today determine your life tomorrow. Have a great beginning to the rest of your school year!