Dear “burned out, already” (BOA):
When the weather changes and the mid-terms fill your agenda while your reading pile grows, it is not surprising that you are feeling run-down. As you mentioned, “everyone around [you] is sneezing or coughing, and you are just waiting for the ‘axe’ to fall on you too.” So far, the fun and the flavour of having all this freedom has been a positive experience, but it is time to take stock! Your stamina and energy is based on three main factors:
(1) at least eight hours sleep a night,
(2) what you eat, and
(3) exercise.
It’s not rocket science that late nights and early mornings will catch up with you. Walking to classes might seem like enough of a work-out, but your body might need more to help with stress relief and improve endurance (that’s what this – an endurance run!) Have a look at what you are feeding that body of yours and the nutrient timing of your meals! Get some protein in your system first thing in the morning, even before, or preferably instead, of coffee. This will turn on the engine of your brain and fire up your muscles so as not to drain your immune system. If you have read anything about the daily minerals needed to keep your concentration level and focus at peak performance, you will want to take a high-quality mineral elixir or supplement.
Take a giant leap at improving your nutrition, and your immunity will make people wonder why you never miss a class. The small decisions you make or don’t make every day will have a substantial cumulative effect on the outcome of your trek.
Elann