your wellness matters.

Taking time for self-care, wellness and your overall health is important. Southwestern a number of ways to help you focus on wellness. One of the best things you can do is integrate self-care into your life on a regular basis.

Here are some tips to help you get started with self-care as identified by the National Institute of Mental Health:

• Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
• Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee.
• Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
• Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy such as journaling.
• Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
• Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind.
• Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
• Stay connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.

Southwestern offers many opportunities to enjoy being outside including a nature trail, greenspace, and disc golf. 

Nature has positive mental health benefits, helps improve attention capacity, lowers stress levels and strengthens our immune system among many other benefits. Spending 15 minutes in nature before taking a test can also help you recall information better! 

SCC Nature Trail

The SCC Nature trail is 1.4 miles and includes walks in the woods, scenic views, and a diversity of plants and trees. The trail will soon have signage with forest therapy prompts to connect with nature on a deeper level with all your senses, a brochure and an audio guide.

Oaks Hall Greenspace 

The Oaks Hall Greenspace is a wonderful place to relax, study and enjoy the restorative beauty of SCC's campus. ENO hammock pods, with hammocks available to check out from the library as well as adirondack chairs will help you chill between classes. We will soon have cornhole boards available as well!

Disc Golf

Disc golf is so much fun and great exercise. We currently have two permanent targets up near Bradford Hall and will have four more soon. Discs can be checked out from the library.