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Healthy Buffs: Good Vibes

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The “treat yourself” mindset is all over the place, and research shows that it really does improve mood in the moment. A recent study also found that when we treat others, too, everyone gets a psychological boost in terms of mood, functioning and overall outlook. As your student wraps up the academic year and looks toward summer, these ideas are a great way to spread positivity!

Treat Your Community

  • With 30 seconds: hold the door for someone.
  • With 2 minutes: text a friend wishing them a good day, an easy shift at work, a fun night—whatever they need to hear.
  • With 5 minutes: take a walk outside, smiling at the people they pass.
  • With 15 minutes: remind them to do their roommates a solid by tidying up the kitchen or living room.
  • With the whole day: check in with CU’s Volunteer Resource Center about local opportunities to have an impact.

Treat Yourself

  • With 30 seconds: sit in a comfortable place, close your eyes and focus on your breath.
  • With 2 minutes: watch a funny video on YouTube. Send them one you like!
  • With 5 minutes: try these stretches to ease stress.
  • With 15 minutes: slow down and savor your next snack, cup of coffee or meal.
  • With the whole day: go all in! Grab some healthy, filling food, pick up a book you’ve been meaning to read or tackle assignment project that’s been lingering on the to-do list. “Treating yourself” doesn’t have to cost a lot or even be luxurious: it’s about doing what makes each of us feel a little better with the time and resources we have.

Psychological Benefits

Treating ourselves and others is scientifically proven to boost our happiness, health and wellbeing. It’s also contagious: researchers have found that when someone performs a good deed, those around them are more likely to follow suit. Whatever else your student may have going on this week, you can support them in finding a little time to spread those good vibes and you can too! Everyone deserves it!

The Healthy Buffs series is brought to you by Wardenburg Health Services. Visit us online at www.colorado.edu/health