Healthy Buffs

How to take care of yourself after a breakup

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 19:00:28 +0000

How to take care of yourself after a breakup Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 12/08/2025 - 12:00

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been with someone for a matter of weeks, months or years. The end of a relationship can sometimes leave you feeling uneasy or uncertain about what comes next. Here are a few tips that can help you cope with a breakup.

Feel your feelings

Sad, angry, jealous, relieved—whatever you’re feeling is normal. Let yourself experience those emotions without judgment. Avoiding them can make things harder later, and the pain will likely ease with time. If you're finding it hard to cope with your emotions, sometimes distraction can help increase our ability to cope. Consider watching a movie or TV show, talking with a friend or family member, listen to your favorite music or invite a friend to go on a walk. Sometimes your feelings may feel overwhelming, or sometimes they may be more tolerable—you're the expert in what you can handle and treating yourself with kindness and compassion after a breakup will serve you best in the long run.

Set boundaries

Boundaries can help protect your mental health moving forward. Here are some examples of boundaries you can set after a breakup:

Sharing details: You don’t owe anyone the story. If asked, and you do not want to share, try: “I’d rather not talk about it right now.”

Contact: Take a break from your ex. A “no-contact” period gives space to heal.

Unexpected encounters: If you share classes or friends, agree to keep things polite and brief.

Friendship: If you’re trying to stay friends, set clear lines—maybe that’s no cuddling, sleepovers or being each other’s primary source of support.

Watch for harmful behavior

Breakups should never involve control, threats, abuse or other harmful behaviors. If you or someone you know feels unsafe, reach out for help. The Office of Victim Assistance (OVA) offers free, confidential support.

Connect with your people

Spend time with friends, family or roommates. Grab coffee, share a meal, get outside or just check in. Let them know how you’re doing and ask about them, too. If you need support, ask for it. The people who care about you will likely be more than happy to help.

Look after your well-being

It’s important to make sure your needs are met, especially after a breakup. Here are a few examples of simple activities that are worth a try:

Journal your thoughts.

Move your body—walk, dance or visit The Rec.

Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

Drink water and eat regular meals.

Call a friend.

Monitor substance use—they can sometimes make things worse and can delay healing from a difficult experience.

Make time to reflect

When you feel ready, looking back on your relationship can help you learn more about yourself. Here are some questions to guide your reflection:

Who were you then—and who are you now?

Relationships often change us. Think about:

How have you grown as a person?

What did you learn about handling conflict?

Did your communication skills improve?

What habits do you want to keep moving forward?

What are your non-negotiables?

Dating teaches us what matters most. Ask yourself:

What qualities or values are essential for you in a relationship?

Did you discover any deal-breakers you didn’t expect? Knowing this helps you set healthy boundaries in the future.

What would you do differently next time?

Nobody’s perfect. Reflect without being too self-critical:

Are there things you wish you’d handled differently?

How do you want to show up in future relationships? Use these insights as lessons, not regrets.

Remember, the goal isn’t to dwell on the past—it’s to understand yourself better and move forward with confidence.

Find support

Breakups can be tough, but you don’t need to go through it alone. If you need support, there are resources on campus that can help.

Let’s Talk

Connect with a Counseling & Psychiatric Services provider for a free, informal consultation to discuss your concerns and learn about additional resources on campus. Students commonly visit with concerns about stress, sadness, worry, relationships, academic performance, family problems and financial struggles.

Office of Victim Assistance (OVA)

OVA provides free and confidential information, consultations, support, advocacy and short-term trauma counseling services for students, staff and faculty who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic, disturbing or life-disruptive event. This includes intimate partner abuse, domestic violence, stalking, sexual assault and more.

Thriving Campus

If you are looking to connect with a local mental health provider in your area, Thriving Campus can help you connect with a variety of providers based on specialization, needs and insurance.

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Your winter break reset: Tips for feeling your best

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 21:40:25 +0000

Your winter break reset: Tips for feeling your best Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 11/18/2025 - 14:40

Health Promotion

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Whether you’re heading home or staying on campus, winter break is a chance to slow down and do things that help you recharge. Here are some quick, practical ideas to help you feel more balanced and energized.

Set your own pace

Winter break can often feel busy with holidays, plans with family or other responsibilities, but it’s okay to slow down. Listen to what you need, whether that’s social time or quiet time, and build it into your day.

Stay connected

Spending time with people who lift you up can boost your mood. Keep in touch with friends, family or roommates—even a quick text or FaceTime can make a difference. Make plans you’ll look forward to with others and give yourself the chance to enjoy them when the time comes.

Move in ways you enjoy

Moving your body is a great way to recharge, as it helps reduce stress and gives you more energy. And movement doesn’t have to mean a full workout. Go for a walk, dance to your favorite playlist or try something new. No matter how you choose to move, find joy in the activity and notice how it helps you feel more refreshed.

Get outside

Enjoying fresh air and exposure to natural light are easy ways to improve your well-being. Take a walk, explore a local park or just sit outside with your favorite beverage. If you’re traveling, look for ways to enjoy the outdoors wherever you are.

Try simple ways to recharge

Little actions can make a big difference in your day. Here are some other ideas to try over break:

Write down three things you’re grateful for

Declutter your space for 10 minutes

Take a break from social media

Watch a show that makes you laugh

Enjoy your favorite snack or drink

Remember, winter break is your opportunity to reset and take care of yourself. Make the most of it and return feeling refreshed and ready for the new semester!

Find support

If you’re feeling stressed or simply want to try new ways to support yourself, campus resources are available to help you thrive.

Peer Wellness Coaching: Connect with a trained peer coach for one-on-one support. They can help you set goals, manage stress and more.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): If you’re in Colorado, CAPS offers confidential counseling, group sessions and psychiatric care to help you navigate challenges, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress or other concerns.

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5 free activities that can boost your well-being

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:33:33 +0000

5 free activities that can boost your well-being Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 11/12/2025 - 09:33

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One of the best things about college is that you have access to a ton of free resources and support. Check out these five free wellness activities you can try on campus!

1. Sign up for a free nutrition consultation

You can meet with a registered dietitian for a free appointment to talk about your nutrition questions. Get advice on healthy eating, meal planning, sports nutrition, and making lifestyle changes.

2. Try a free workshop

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) offers workshops where you can discover effective ways to manage stress, tackle anxiety, build healthy routines, and pick up practical life skills for campus life and beyond.

3. Take a snooze in a nap pod

Feeling groggy or tired between classes? Stop by one of the Relaxation Stations on campus. Each location has two nap pods that will lull you to sleep with a comfortable cushioned seat, customized sleep playlists and a gentle waking sequence. No reservation required—just drop by.

Nap pod locations:

Main Student Recreation Center (main floor)

Wellness Suite in Wardenburg Health Center (third floor)

Norlin Library (first floor)

CASE (third floor east)

4. Get moving at Free Friday Power Hour

Kick off the weekend with free group fitness classes at the Rec Center! Classes vary from week to week, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try something new or stick to what you love.

Free Friday Power Hour is open to all Rec Center members with an active Buff OneCard, and no registration is required.

5. Meet with a peer wellness coach

Looking to make friends, manage stress or stay on track? Peer wellness coaches—fellow Buffs just like you—can help you set goals, connect with campus resources and take action.

Looking to develop better study habits, find balance and feel more grounded? Peer wellness coaches are fellow Buffs just like you, who understand what it's like to be a college student today. They can help you set goals, connect with useful resources and take action.

Get support with:

Study habits

Finals prep

Better sleep

Money matters

Relationships

Self-care

And more!

At CU ��ý��, there are many resources to help you feel your best and make the most of college life. Whether you want to meet new friends, manage stress or try something active, there’s support and opportunities waiting for you—so you can enjoy your time here and set yourself up for a great future.

One of the best things about college is that you have access to a ton of free resources and support. Check out these five free wellness activities you can try on campus!

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Small ways to treat yourself during finals

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 23:17:58 +0000

Small ways to treat yourself during finals Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 11/11/2025 - 16:17

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As the end of the semester approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines and study sessions. But remember, it’s important to take care of your well-being along the way!

This is your chance to recharge, celebrate your progress and discover new ways to treat yourself. Check out these ideas to try during finals week.

Try acupuncture or massage

Acupuncture is a natural way to help your body heal and can help with everything from sore muscles and stress to anxiety and fatigue. If you want a fast pick-me-up, check out group acupuncture sessions—these appointments use ear needles or seeds and are a great way to relax.

Massage therapy is also available if you’re looking to unwind. Licensed massage therapists can help you relax and ease muscle tension. Services are offered at Wardenburg and the Rec Center, so it’s easy to fit a session into your busy schedule. Get ready to feel rejuvenated and take on finals with confidence! Schedule an appointment through your MyCUHealth Portal.

Move your body

If you’re looking for a quick way to boost your mood and energy, moving your body is a great option. Physical activity doesn’t just support your physical health—it can also help clear your mind and reduce stress.

Aim for about 20 minutes of movement each day. Short on time? Split it up into two 10-minute sessions when your schedule gets busy. Try activities you enjoy, like running, jogging, walking, biking, dancing or yoga. You can also switch things up by volunteering to walk dogs or joining a game of spike ball.

Need more ways to get active? Stop by the Rec Center during Free Finals Week for free skating, bouldering and fitness classes. Plus, you’ll find meeting rooms available if you need a quiet place to study between activities.

Stay connected

Finals can be stressful, but you don’t have to go through them alone. Staying connected to friends and family can make a big difference for your well-being.

Reach out to loved ones for a quick chat or organize a group hangout to share a laugh and decompress. Making plans with friends can also give you something positive to look forward to—whether it’s Late Night Breakfast, a coffee date after an exam or a fun outing once finals are over, having these moments on your calendar can boost your mood and motivation.

Remember, you’re not the only one feeling the finals crunch. Lean on your support system and offer encouragement to others, too.

Take a nap

Want a way to treat yourself and practice self-care? Make sleep your top priority! Giving yourself seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night is one of the kindest things you can do for your body, mind and immune system—especially during finals. Rather than pushing through late-night study sessions, show yourself some compassion by sticking to a sleep routine that helps you feel your best.

Take care of yourself by saying no to all-nighters and late-night cramming. Plan out your study time for each class so you can maintain balance without sacrificing sleep. If you still feel tired during the day, give yourself permission to recharge at a campus Relaxation Station—a quick 15-to-20-minute nap can be a wonderful act of self-care, leaving you refreshed and ready to take on whatever’s next.

Celebrate small wins

Be sure to celebrate your achievements—no matter how small! Every bit of progress counts, whether you’re tackling one exam or juggling several. Taking time to recognize your wins can help you stay motivated. Here are some easy ways to treat yourself:

Enjoy a delicious meal. Cook something you love or grab takeout from your favorite spot for a well-deserved treat.

Take a break. Give yourself a day to unwind, watch your favorite shows, get outside, or simply relax without any schoolwork.

Reward yourself. Celebrate your hard work with a little treat—maybe an extra special coffee or something else that brings you joy.

Share gratitude. Take a moment to thank friends, family or even yourself for the support and encouragement during finals.

As we get ready to close out the semester, remember to be kind to yourself. These small acts of self-care can make finals week not only manageable, but a little more enjoyable, too.

As the end of the semester approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines and study sessions. But remember, it’s important to take care of your well-being along the way! Check out these ideas to treat yourself during finals week.

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Beat the study slump: How to boost your comfort and focus

Kyra Raye Loch — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 17:38:32 +0000

Beat the study slump: How to boost your comfort and focus Kyra Raye Loch Mon, 10/27/2025 - 11:38

Medical Services

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Studying and working at a desk can be tough on your body. Leaning over your laptop or using a setup that’s not super comfortable can lead to sore necks and backs.

But don’t worry—physical therapists at Medical Services have your back (literally)! Here are some easy tips to help you feel better and avoid those aches and pains.

Take breaks and keep moving

Staying in one position for too long, especially while studying, can lead to stiffness, soreness and other health issues. That’s why the Physical Therapy team at Medical Services recommends taking regular breaks to move in ways that feel good to your body.

Try building short movement breaks into your day. For example, after an hour of studying, take 15 minutes to stretch, shift positions, go for a short walk if you’re able to or do a few simple exercises. You can also add movement to your routine in small, simple ways. This can include changing your posture, doing gentle stretches while on a call or using a different seat that encourages more active sitting.

Practice deep breathing to ease stress and tension

Stress and pain are closely connected in the brain, so lowering your stress can also help reduce physical discomfort. Deep breathing exercises can help calm our nervous system down from “fight-flight-or-freeze" mode into a more relaxed “rest and digest” state.

To try it out, find a spot where you feel comfortable— you can be sitting, lying down or in any position that works for you. Take a few minutes to focus on breathing slowly and deeply. Try breathing in through your nose for a count of three, pause for a moment then breathe out through your mouth for a count of four.

As you keep breathing, notice how your body responds. Do your shoulders feel more relaxed? Has some tension eased up? Keep going until you feel a little calmer and more centered.

Support your lower back while sitting

Sitting for long periods can lead to back pain, especially in your lower back. Supporting this area can help you feel more comfortable.

One tip for this is to place a small rolled-up towel or blanket between your lower back and the chair to give it extra support. Another option is to place a towel roll under your sitting bones (tailbone area). This can help tilt your pelvis slightly forward, which may make it easier for your back to relax. It can also help ease tension in your shoulders and neck, especially if you’re working at a computer.

Try different setups to see what feels best for your body. Even small adjustments can make a big difference!

Tweak your setup to work better for you

Whether you study at a desk, on the couch or in bed, there are ways to make your space more comfortable and supportive. If you use a laptop, try raising it so the screen is at eye level—this can help reduce strain on your neck and back.

If you’re able to, using a separate keyboard and mouse can help your shoulders, elbows and wrists stay in a more relaxed position. If that’s not an option, experiment with different spots around your space, like switching from a coffee table to a counter or desk—to find what feels best for your body.

And when it’s time to take a break, be mindful if you spend time on your phone. Looking down at your screen can add extra stress to your neck and shoulders. Try holding your phone closer to eye level when you can—even small changes like this can help you feel better.

Find support

If you’re dealing with ongoing discomfort, pain that’s getting worse or just want some expert advice on making your study space more comfortable, don’t wait—reach out to a physical therapist! Medical Services makes it easy for students to get support, offering physical therapy appointments both at Wardenburg and at the Rec Center. Schedule a session today and start feeling better.

Studying and working at a desk can be tough on your body. Leaning over your laptop or using a setup that’s not super comfortable can lead to sore necks and backs. But don’t worry—physical therapists at Medical Services have your back (literally)! Here are some easy tips to help you feel better and avoid those aches and pains.

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When is it time to seek mental health support?

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 21:28:38 +0000

When is it time to seek mental health support? Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 10/24/2025 - 15:28

Counseling & Psychiatric Services

College can be exciting, challenging and sometimes overwhelming. Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, knowing when and how to ask for help is important. You don’t have to go through tough times alone—there are people and resources ready to support you.

Here are some tips to know when and how to reach out for help.

When to reach out for general support

It’s okay to ask for help, even if you’re not sure you “need” it. Stress, sadness and anxiety can sneak up on us and are typical, especially in college. But if something doesn’t feel right, it’s worth checking in.

Many college students experience struggles such as:

Feeling stressed, anxious or worried
Feeling sad or down
Feeling lonely or disconnected
Struggling to keep up with school, work or relationships
Using substances
Dealing with relationship challenges
Feeling stuck and unsure how to make changes

While many of these experiences are common, it’s time to reach out for help if you feel as though your struggles are impacting your ability to live your life in a way that feels good and meaningful to you.

Some signs that these things are having a negative impact may include:

Avoiding situations that you used to enjoy
Struggling to get out of bed or make it to class
Isolating yourself
Using substances more often or noticing you are struggling to control your use
Not eating regularly or otherwise not caring for yourself like you are used to
Not experiencing joy or feelings of happiness in the way you used to
Struggling to complete your academic work or manage the stress of academics

Connect with general support resources:

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS provides mental health support for all CU ��ý�� students, including same-day mental health screenings, brief individual therapy, group therapy, workshops and crisis support. Drop-in screenings are available in person at CAPS in C4C N352 Monday-Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the fall semester.

Let’s Talk: Drop in for a casual, confidential chat with a CAPS counselor—no appointment needed.

Free workshops: Learn coping skills for stress, anxiety and tough emotions.

Peer Wellness Coaching: Talk with trained student coaches about stress, relationships, academics, sleep, finances and more.

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support: Case managers connect students with campus partners, community resources and support systems while building a trusting relationship and coaching them toward self-advocacy. They can also reach out to a friend on your behalf if you’re worried about someone.

Office of Victim Assistance: Free, confidential support with advocate counselors for students who’ve experienced or witnessed something traumatic or disruptive, recently or in the past.

Thriving Campus: Find local mental health providers based on your needs and insurance.

When to seek urgent support

Sometimes things feel too big to handle alone, and you need help right away.

Urgent support is for situations like:

Thinking about suicide or not feeling safe
Thinking about hurting someone else
Feeling like your life is in danger
Seeing or hearing things that others aren't responding to
Experiencing a recent assault or trauma
Feeling out of control with substance use or eating behaviors

If you or someone you know needs urgent help, here are options:

Counseling & Psychiatric Services: Call 303-492-2277 anytime to talk with a mental health professional. Drop-in screenings are also available in person at CAPS in C4C N352 Monday-Friday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the fall semester.

Office of Victim Assistance: Call 303-492-8855 anytime to talk to a counselor specifically about assault, abuse, violence, crime or trauma.

Colorado Crisis Services: Call 1-844-493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255—available 24/7.

Clinica Health and Wellness Crisis Center: Walk-in support at 3180 Airport Rd, ��ý��.

Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741 or chat via WhatsApp—free and available 24/7.

Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ support): Call 1-866-488-7386 or text “START” to 678678.

When to call for emergency help

If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical attention, call 911 or CU ��ý�� Police at 303-492-6666. You won’t get in trouble for calling—your safety and the safety of others is the priority.

Emergency situations include:

Someone has disappeared
Someone has been threatening suicide or attempted suicide
Someone may overdose or has overdosed
Someone is engaging in dangerous behavior
Someone can’t care for themselves and needs immediate help

Find support:

If you’re concerned about someone’s safety, you can request a welfare check. Consider this option if you’re seriously worried about someone’s well-being because of their recent behavior or statements, and you can’t reach them to confirm they’re safe. Police departments can conduct welfare checks—just be ready to provide their location (including residence hall and room number if on campus) and why you’re concerned.

On campus: Call CUPD at 303-492-6666

Off campus: Call ��ý�� Police at 303-441-3333 or the local police department

Many departments, including CUPD and ��ý�� Police, often bring a mental health co-responder to support these situations. When calling, you can ask for a co-responder. Their goal is to check on the person, connect them to support and help them make a plan for care—not to get anyone in trouble. They may also help contact a friend or family member. Remember, calling the police isn’t always the right option for everyone, so consider what feels safest in each situation.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Call 988 anytime for free, confidential support if you or someone you know needs immediate mental health support.

Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and there are resources and people ready to support you whenever you need it.

Whether you're worried about yourself or a friend, knowing when and how to ask for help is important. You don’t have to go through tough times alone—there are people and resources ready to support you. Here are some tips to know when and how to reach out.

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How to stay healthy when traveling

Kyra Raye Loch — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:49:55 +0000

How to stay healthy when traveling Kyra Raye Loch Fri, 10/24/2025 - 14:49

Medical Services

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Fall break is just around the corner, and for many students, it’s a chance to head out and recharge. Whether you're hitting the road, catching a flight or hopping on a bus, keeping your health in check can help you make the most of your time off.

Here are some tips to help you stay healthy when traveling.

Get vaccinated

Vaccines, like flu shots, can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you end up falling ill.

Students can get a free flu shot at one of our pop-up clinics around campus or by signing up for an appointment at Wardenburg through your MyCUHealth Portal.

Get enough sleep

Traveling can be exhausting, especially when changing time zones or hauling bags around campus and airports. Prioritize getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night. If you’re feeling tired during the day, don’t hesitate to take a quick nap. Good sleep helps boost your energy and keeps your immune system strong.

Wash your hands

Busy travel spots mean you’re exposed to more germs. Make a habit of washing your hands often—after using the bathroom, before eating and when you move between locations. If you can’t find soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Healthy hand hygiene is a simple way to avoid getting sick over fall break.

Stay hydrated

Long travel days can lead to dehydration, especially if you’re flying or spending hours on the road. Drink plenty of water throughout your journey. Bring a reusable water bottle so you can refill it at airports or stations. Setting reminders on your phone can help you remember to drink regularly and keep your energy up.

Practice good hygiene

Practicing good hygiene while traveling is a smart way to help you stay healthy. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer often, cough or sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve, and try not to touch your face. These simple steps can help prevent the spread of common colds, flu and other illnesses.

With a few simple habits, you can enjoy a fun and healthy fall break wherever your travels take you.

Whether you're hitting the road, catching a flight or hopping on a bus, keeping your health in check can help you make the most of your fall break. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy when traveling.

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6 ways to adjust to the end of daylight saving time

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 16:20:30 +0000

6 ways to adjust to the end of daylight saving time Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 10/21/2025 - 10:20

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Daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 a.m., which means we “fall back” and gain an extra hour of sleep. While your phone will update automatically, your body might need a little help adjusting. Here are six simple tips to help you reset your sleep schedule and feel your best.

Change your clocks before bed

Most phones and laptops update on their own, but don’t forget about the old-school clocks — like the ones on your microwave, oven or car. Set them back before you go to sleep Saturday night so you wake up with everything synced and stress-free.

Create a chill nighttime routine

Help your brain wind down by doing something relaxing before bed. Think: a warm shower, herbal tea, reading a book (ideally a physical copy and not on your phone), or listening to a calming playlist or meditation. These habits can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

To make your nighttime routine even more restful, consider picking up free wellness supplies like ear plugs, eye masks and more. You can find these items at the Wellness Suites on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center, at the Village Center or order them through a Buff Box. Adding these simple tools to your routine can help you relax and get better sleep.

Stick to a steady sleep schedule

It’s tempting to stay up late with that “extra hour,” but keeping a consistent sleep routine is key. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night to stay sharp, focused and energized. Your body will adjust faster if you keep your usual bedtime and wake-up time.

Cut back on screens before bed

Blue light from phones and laptops can mess with your sleep by tricking your brain into thinking it’s still daytime. Try using built-in features like:

Night Shift (iPhone)

Night Mode (Android)

F.lux (Windows/Mac)

Or better yet, unplug an hour before bed to help your body get ready for sleep naturally.

Skip late-night snacks, caffeine and alcohol

Caffeine and alcohol can mess with your sleep cycle, and eating too close to bedtime can make it harder to fall asleep. If you’re hungry, go for something light — like a banana or a handful of nuts.

Take a power nap (if you need it)

Feeling groggy? A short nap (20–30 minutes max) can help you recharge without throwing off your sleep schedule. Just don’t nap too late in the day or for too long—that can make it harder to fall asleep at night.

If you need a quick rest between classes, check out the nap pods available on campus. You’ll find them in the Rec Center, the Wellness Suite in Wardenburg, Norlin Library, and the east third floor of CASE—perfect spots to sneak in a restorative break and get back to your day feeling refreshed.

Use this time change as a chance to reset your sleep habits and prioritize rest. Your body and brain will thank you — especially during midterms and finals!

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Growth isn’t linear: What to do when you feel stuck

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:18:00 +0000

Growth isn’t linear: What to do when you feel stuck Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 10/16/2025 - 15:18

Counseling & Psychiatric Services

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College is full of twists and turns, and that’s normal. It’s common to feel uncertain about your major, your future or even your next steps. If you’re feeling stuck, you’re not alone, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Let’s talk about what it means to be “stuck.”

Reframe: Feeling stuck means you’re learning

Growth isn’t a straight line. You might make progress, hit a wall, take a detour and then move forward again. These shifts or moments of failure happen a lot throughout life. In fact, setbacks are often where the most meaningful learning happens.

It’s normal not to have everything figured out right now. The important thing is to discover what you need and clarify what you want to work toward.

Reset: Rethink your goals

Sometimes people feel stuck because the goals they’ve set aren’t realistic for where they are right now. Take a moment to ask yourself:

Is this goal achievable with the time, energy and resources I have?

If not, can I adjust it to something more doable?

Small, actionable goals are often more effective than big, overwhelming ones. Progress is progress, even if it’s slow.

Take a break: Rest is productive

We live in a culture that glorifies the grind. But here’s the truth: you can’t grow if you’re exhausted, burned out or disconnected. Sometimes the best thing you can do is pause.

Find time for a walk or gentle stretching. Do something creative. Connect with friends or get outside. When you reconnect with your body and heart, your mind often follows.

Reconnect and realign: Find what feels right

If you’re unsure about your path, take time to reflect on what makes you you. Try this quadrant activity:

Write down 5-10 things in each of these categories: experiences, skills, passions and personality traits.

Look at your list. What patterns do you see?

Share it with someone you trust and ask for their feedback.

This can help you reconnect with your values and strengths—and maybe even spark new ideas for your path forward.

Instead of chasing a single “passion,” ask yourself: Do my current actions align with my values? If not, it might be time to explore new options. That could mean connecting with Career Services, joining a student organization or trying out a new class that excites you.

College is a time of discovery. What you thought you wanted might change—and that’s okay.

Find support: You don’t have to do this alone

Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Talk to people who care about you—friends, family, mentors or someone further along in your academic journey. That could be a TA, an advisor or a student whose resilience you admire.

CU ��ý�� has many support services to help you navigate your path. Whether it’s academic advising, Career Services, the Basic Needs Center, tutoring or mental health support, you don’t have to figure it out alone. You can also connect with peer wellness coaches, who are trained students ready to help you set goals, manage stress and find resources that fit your needs.

Wherever you are on your journey, it’s okay. Growth isn’t linear, and setbacks are part of the process. Learning how to navigate uncertainty now will build resilience that lasts a lifetime.

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Mindfulness tips for college students: Simple ways to be present

Kyra Raye Loch — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 19:02:05 +0000

Mindfulness tips for college students: Simple ways to be present Kyra Raye Loch Thu, 10/16/2025 - 13:02

Health Promotion

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Life gets busy, especially in college. Even with all this activity, you have the power to discover calm and clarity. Practicing mindfulness can help you make the most of every moment and truly thrive.

Jon Kabat-Zinn, a pioneer in the field, defines mindfulness as:

“Awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.”

That last part—non-judgmentally—is key. Mindfulness isn’t about doing things perfectly or clearing your mind. It’s about noticing what’s happening right now, without labeling it as “good” or “bad.”

Why practice mindfulness?

Research shows that regular mindfulness practice can lead to:

Improved attention and focus

Reduced stress

Better emotion regulation

Pain management

Stronger immune function

And that’s just the beginning. Mindfulness helps you feel more grounded, more present and more in control of your energy and attention.

You don’t always have to meditate to be mindful

Meditation is great and offers many benefits, but it’s not the only way to practice mindfulness. You can be mindful while doing everyday things, especially in those small pockets of time between classes.

Here are some easy mindful practices you can try.

Mindful movement or transition moments

Whether you're walking, rolling, stretching or simply moving from one space to another, you can turn that transition into a mindful moment. Pay attention to how your body feels, the rhythm of your movement, the air on your skin and the sounds around you. Let your senses guide you into the present.

Even if you're seated, you can practice mindfulness by noticing your breath, the feeling of your body in the chair or the sounds in your environment. These small check-ins help you reset and reconnect.

Mindfulness in everyday activities

You don’t need extra time or a quiet room to practice mindfulness—you can do it while living your life. Everyday tasks like brushing your teeth, drinking coffee, folding laundry or doing the dishes can become moments of calm and clarity.

Here’s how to bring mindfulness into your daily routine:

Tune into your senses: What do you see, hear, feel, smell or taste while doing the activity?

Notice your thoughts and emotions: Let them come and go without judging them as “good” or “bad.”

Let the task be simple: You don’t need to multitask or rush. Just be with what you’re doing.

Try this: While doing a chore like washing dishes, notice the warmth of the water, the scent of the soap, the sound of the splashing. Let yourself enjoy the moment for what it is. These small shifts in attention can help you feel more grounded, reduce stress and bring a little joy into the ordinary.

Digital wellness

Our phones are designed to grab our attention. Mindfulness helps you take back control.

Try reducing passive screen time and notice how your energy shifts. You can try using app timers or setting certain hours in your day that are screen-free.

Smile

Yes, really. Smiling—even a soft, gentle smile—can reduce stress and lift your mood. Throughout the day, check in with your facial expression. Hear the word “smiling” in your mind and let it happen. Observe if there’s a change in how you feel.

Find support: Mindfulness resources on campus

Mindfulness doesn’t have to be a solo journey. CU ��ý�� offers several free and welcoming resources to help you explore mindfulness, connect with others and build habits that support your well-being.

Events with the CALM Center
The Contemplative Arts, Learning & Meditation (CALM) Center offers weekly opportunities for meditation, yoga, guided journaling and other contemplative practices.

Feel Good Fridays at the CU Art Museum
Take a break and join a guided meditation in a peaceful, art-filled space. These sessions are designed to help you reset and recharge.

Zen Meditation
CU students, staff and faculty are welcome to join weekly Zen meditation sessions led by Dr. Sigman Myoshin Byrd. Each Thursday this semester includes a 20-minute sit and a short discussion about well-being and balance through meditation.

Journey to the Center of Stillness: Dec. 1 at Fiske Planetarium
Experience mindfulness in a whole new way with this free, immersive event that blends stillness and space. It’s a unique opportunity to slow down and connect with the present moment.

By weaving mindfulness into your everyday life, you can cultivate greater well-being, presence and resilience no matter where you are or what you're doing.

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Mindfulness tips for college students: Simple ways to be present

Why practice mindfulness?

You don’t always have to meditate to be mindful

Mindful movement or transition moments

Mindfulness in everyday activities

Digital wellness

Smile

Find support: Mindfulness resources on campus

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