Being a student affairs professional doesn’t give you much time to balance the ol’ wellness wheel (even though we are trying to teach our students to do just that). SA Pros work long days, weeks, and months, and live for the days when our students get a break so we can somehow catch our breath. Even with the intensity of our field, there are creative ways to make the balancing act work. Here are 10 SA Fitness Hacks to keep you grounded:
1. Say no to the free pizza and donuts!
We can all get by without the free food offered at our many events (except for the carrots and celery)! While I do love pizza, I try to bring my own lunch and say no that extra slice. I also struggle with drinking soda, but try to limit your soda intake to 1 can a day. Healthy snacks and water can help keep you on track!
2. Stand strong!
Standing desks can be more affordable than you might think. I worked with our physical plant and IT office to convert a shelf storage unit into a standing desk. In addition, my partner built her own standing desk at various offices. In my current role, I have a reasonable priced standing desk. Some can get expensive, but there are options. Also, encourage your staff to stand up when they need to during long meetings!
3. I will come to you!
When someone asks to meet with me, I always offer to come to them. If your meeting is with people in your own office, schedule the meeting across campus. Get those extra steps!
4. Walk and talk.
Some meetings may need to occur behind closed doors. However, if you can (and your colleague is up for it) suggest a walking one-on-one.
5. Be extra helpful.
Notice an event is finishing but it isn’t your responsibility? Offer to take the chairs down and make it a quick 10-minute workout.
6. Make the time.
You will not always have the time to do a full work out, but 10-20 minutes is better than nothing. I have found that even in those crunch times–whether it be conferences or opening and closing out the year–even a 20-minute workout can make a difference. There are plenty of quick workouts you can easily find on YouTube!
7. The secret life of Pets and SA Pros.
Getting a pet can force you to get home and walk the dog or alpaca because you have to. For those that live in residence life with pet policies, consider walking someone else’s animal. In addition, this might be a good opportunity for a side hustle!
8. Just breathe.
That’s it, just breathe in and out. We all need to take a little time to slow down, let the stress go, and take some deep breaths.
9. Lounges to 5ks!
If you are able, try to find some races or walks. For the more adventurous SA Pros, there is nothing like charging through 10+ miles of mud only to get electrocuted with your colleagues as you cross the finish line.
10. Icebreakers anyone?
Every time you lead an icebreaker, include stretches so you and everyone else can warmup before you begin.
I hope these simple hacks get you started! Have a great work week and stay strong!
This post is part of our #SAfit series for April. With the constant hustle and bustle of our profession, we can’t forget to put ourselves at the top of our to-do list sometimes. It is essential that we remember to take time for self care and this series highlights how our colleagues work #SAfit into their lifestyles. This can look different for each of us and your journey is your own. For more info, please see Mandi Stewart’s intro post. Be sure to check out the other posts in this series too!
