food

How to Deal with College Stress in 5 Minutes

Posted on by Tia Harvey

How to Deal with College Stress in 5 Minutes

I wish someone had warned me how stressful college can be. No one tells you about all the bad parts of college, only the fun parts like tailgates. Especially that the stress level gets bigger and bigger each passing year. Between juggling school, work and attempting some type of social life, there is also extracurricular activities like clubs and sports.

I’ve had my fair share of meltdowns and panic attacks from all the stress and worrying about the stress will (I can guarantee) make it worse. Most of the time our stress is from thinking about what we need to do instead of actually doing it. I’m not saying that we don’t have a lot to do but instead of trying to avoid all the stress, sometimes its better to face it head on. To get me through these times, I follow these tips that can take only minutes to do, to help me survive this.

Just Breathe

Take a quick second to reevaluate yourself and just breathe. Everything can be overwhelming at times but in those moments, you need to take a step back. Sometimes we take on too much in college and take a moment to breathe can give you clarity on how to handle stress.

Eat a Snack

The act of eating something can decompress stress levels and boost energy levels overall. Sometimes when we are also feeling a little tired, the act of chewing can refresh our bodies and wake us up.

Listen to Music

I am a big music junkie, I need music for everything I do like the showering, driving in the car, and even during studying. Music provides to me what TV does for other people. It clears my mind and it makes a good background noise for when its too quiet without the distractions of TV images. Music is a great way to get lost and let your mind take a break when you need to.

Smell Something Soothing

I don’t personally do this but I have friends that will spray something or go smell something to calm their nerves. I don’t know if this fully helps but I figured I would add it in, what do you got to lose? The scent of something like citrus or vanilla calms your senses and allow aromatherapy to work. Maybe we need to stop and smell the roses sometime to remind us to relax.

Take a Walk

I hate exercising like everyone else (probably more than everyone else) but a quick walk or run can be just what you need to clear your mind. Taking a break from the stress, your body will feel energized again. I tend to take walks a lot around campus with friends to mostly vent about stress or to enjoy the view.

Laugh

It may seem silly but laughter can really be the best medicine. Laughing can boost your immune system and gives your mind break to think enjoy something other than all the work. Laughter can instantly makes my day better and makes my mood lighter and happier.

I truly believe the stress we face in college is the most stressful period in our lives. Hopefully these tips will help you or help someone else. Comment below and tell me how you deal with stress!

Easy Meals to Make in a Dorm

Posted on by Julia Rivera

Dorming in college has its perks as well as set backs. Some dorm buildings only supply students with a microwave and fridge. Late night meals are difficult to make when you don’t have the proper appliances. Have no fear, for this post is here! These easy meals can be made in a microwave in any dorm room as long as you have the ingredients. They may not be the most healthy option, but they will for sure satisfy your hunger!

Easy Meals to Make in a Dorm

1. Omelette

If you’re anything like me, eggs are an essential part to my diet. Living in a dorm for two years I was severely deprived of having eggs. With this recipe, you can have eggs at any time!

2. Chocolate Cake

For those who have late-night chocolate cravings, this recipe is for you! Who would’ve thought making chocolate cake in a mug was possible?!

3. Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

One of the worst parts of being in college, for me, is being away from my mom’s cooking. Although this recipe can’t compare to the real thing, it’s a good substitute.

4. “Baked” Sweet Potato

My housemate last year used to do this all the time to save time, but it works perfectly for those who dorm. Making a potato is satisfying, but using an oven can take longer than you’re willing to wait. Try this way out.

5. Classic Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is the staple college food. Companies like Kraft and Velveeta make mac and cheese in a cup that you can microwave. However, those can taste fake and processed. Follow this recipe that uses real pasta and cheese to get a better tasting mac and cheese using a microwave.

Enjoy these easy meals until you move to an apartment or graduate and have your own oven! Happy microwaving!

Little Things Matter to a Girl

Posted on by Samuel Farmer

litte-things-coupleThe sweetest things you can do for a girl are the little things that let her know that she’s on your heart and on your mind. -Unknown

When forming a new relationship, there are many things that people are apt to learn about each other in the course of their conversation. Some of these things are trivial; little facts that add nothing to the relationship itself but still help to promote understanding of values and ways of thinking and doing. Other facts are pivotal and help to really create a strong relationship and strong connection. Many of these little things such as when someone’s birthday is or what things annoy people the most may seem quite obvious, but there are plenty of details that are important for a healthy relationship that may not be quite as obvious. When knowing how to make a girl happy in a relationship, there are an endless amount of facts and details that a guy should know.  Here are four important little things to know about a girl in order to make sure you are able to make her happy.

Dessert Preference

little things- chocolate

When a woman is unhappy or in a bad mood, there are very few things that work better to pick them up than a good dessert. Even for those who are highly health conscious, a healthy and tasty dessert can change a mood quickly. It is important to know what kind of dessert a girl likes most and how to easily obtain said dessert. Don’t forget the specifics either. Simple chocolate is a fan favorite but everyone has different tastes and it is important to differentiate between milk, dark, and white. Some people love one type of chocolate but despise the other. Chocolate and desserts are not only great pickups, they are also great mood enhancers. Bringing a box of chocolates to the door for a date or night in may seem like a cliché, but it is cliché because it has been proven to work time after time.  Chocolate has been proven to reduce stress, and also has many other lesser known health benefits.

Favorite Feel-Good Movie

little things - movie

When we as humans are unhappy or in a bad mood, it goes without saying that surrounding ourselves with our favorite things can do a lot to enhance our moods. Our favorite movies are a great thing to watch when in a mad mood or when in a tough place. However, it is important to pick a positive movie to watch in these situations. Your girlfriend’s favorite movie might very well be Old Yeller, but it is highly unlikely that watching this while depressed will cheer her up. Try to seek out a favorite of hers that is positive and uplifting. A feel good or a comedy is usually a good choice.

Favorite Meal

little things - favorite meal

As pointed out in the previous points, surrounding someone with their favorite stuff can raise their mood and make them happier.  It is very important to know a girls favorite meal. Making her favorite meal for her when she is depressed or sad shows her that you care about her happiness and want to help her out of whatever funk she may be in. Making her favorite meal for a romantic night in is also a great idea. If you can get her favorite meal down to the most minute detail and accompany it with her favorite dessert or snack, you have a good chance at making her happier and improving her mood.

Favorite Flowers

little things - favorite flowers

Girls love receiving flowers. Plain and simple. Classic roses are usually a safe bet, along with colorful bouquets and arrangements. However, remembering what her favorite flower is and showing up with them is a very romantic gesture that shows that you listen when she talks and that you care about making her happy. Being slightly knowledgeable about flowers is also something that also can surprise girls as most tend to assume men have no idea about flowers.

Although these little things may seem non-important in the scale of things, it is often the little things that matter the most and can do the most towards making a woman happy.

How to Have the Perfect Barbecue

Posted on by Samuel Farmer

Summer is upon us and the sun is out and shining–well most of the time anyways. There are so many great ways to enjoy summer and having a barbecue is one of the best. If you like delicious food, music, and enjoying the company of your friends on a beautiful sunny day, then a summer barbecue is the perfect option. Here are some important things to do to ensure you have the best barbecue possible.

Plan Ahead With the Weather

barbecue weather

Nothing can ruin a barbecue more than the pouring rain. Soggy meat and muddy clothes can spoil a fun day quickly, so check ahead with the weather to try and select a day that is clear and sunny. Sometimes you will just get unlucky and the weather will do its best to ruin your day, but if you plan ahead you can usually avoid having a barbecue on a rainy miserable day.

Make a Fun Summertime Playlist

barbecue playlist

Upbeat music can really do a lot to boost your mood, so it is imperative to have a good selection of music to dance and sing to, or just enjoy in the background. Try to find a genre or selection of songs that are well known and positive. Summer themed songs can help enhance the experience as well. Be careful about selecting specific genres if you have a group with a variety of different tastes. When in doubt, it’s hard to go wrong with classic rock songs, as they tend to be universally more known. Some examples of bands that would work well on a barbecue playlist are The Beach Boys, as well as Queen and Journey.

Invite a Close Group of Friends

barbecue friends

Barbecues can be extremely fun, so make sure to get a good group of people who you like to be around and who are happy to be there. This doesn’t mean excluding people who may not necessarily fit in with everyone or who may be a little shyer. Barbecues are a great way to introduce friends to other friends who they may not know, as it is a relaxing setting in which people are generally upbeat and happy.

Stay Hydrated and Bring Refreshing Drinks

barbecue drinks

It is important to have plenty of liquids available in the hot summer sun, so bring plenty of refreshing drinks. Fruity drinks such as fruit juices and sodas are tasty beverages to bring to the event. For the 21+ crowd, cold beer as well as wine can be a nice treat to help one relax on a cold summer day. Consult local drinking laws if you are in public areas to ensure that you are drinking legally. It is also a good idea to bring water as it is refreshing and good for you to drink.  A cooler is also a good idea to keep in mind to keep your drinks cold.

Bring Something To Do As A Group

barbecue games

Barbecues can be fantastic events to just relax, sit around, and talk, but there are many other things that can be done at them.  Bringing card or board games can be a good relaxing way to enjoy each others company, as well as bringing balls or other items.  A soccer ball to kick around or a Frisbee to throw are very common barbecue items and can help to keep those who don’t like to remain sedentary having fun.

Bring Lots of Tasty Food

barbecue food

Ah, the best part of the barbecue: Food. The food at a barbecue may be the most important factor and is what a lot of people look forward to the most. The traditional barbecue foods are hot dogs, hamburgers and watermelon, which are all excellent choices that you cannot go wrong with.  Remember though that there are many other options as well. Pulled pork and brisket are a little harder to make but can be twice as delicious if made right. There are also plenty of barbecue sides available that you can bring such as sweet corn, potato salad, and baked beans. It is also a nice idea to bring a dessert that people can enjoy. Homemade brownies or cookies are a delicious idea, but you also can’t go wrong with something cold on a hot summer day, like ice cream or popsicles.  It is also very important to not forget condiments! Although some people may like their burgers or hot dogs plain, it can often be that extra bit of mustard, ketchup, or barbecue sauce that really helps to put the food over the edge.

If you follow all these steps, you will have a fantastic barbecue and have a wonderful day eating good food, enjoying some good music, and enjoying the company of friends and/or family!

4 Ways to Make a Healthier Pizza!

Posted on by Genna Gincel

1. Use a whole wheat tortilla as the crust.

pizza1

This is a healthier alternative to a traditional pizza crust, but is just as delicious! Put your sauce, cheese, and desired toppings on and then put it in the oven for 10 minutes at 350 degrees. Sprinkle some garlic powder and basil on top for added flavor. You can adjust the cooking times depending on how crispy you want your crust to be.

2. Make a personal pizza on a portobello mushroom cap.

pizza 2

This makes a great snack or pair it with a salad or some other side to make it a meal. This is a very healthy, low carb alternative to a regular pizza and it is very tasty! You can get very creative with this option. Use any sauce you want: marinara, Alfredo, or pesto and it will be delicious. Then top with some low-fat shredded cheese or fresh mozzarella and any toppings you want. Pop it in the oven for 20 minutes at 375 degrees. It is super easy and a great way to satisfy your pizza craving!

3. Pick up some whole wheat flat-bread pizza crusts.

pizza3

You can find these premade crusts in stores (the package pictured above is from Target). All you have to do is add your sauce, cheese, and toppings and toss it in the oven for 10 minutes at 425 degrees and you’ll have a delicious and crispy thin crust pizza! Use lots of veggies for toppings for added nutrition and tastiness!

4. Choose your toppings wisely.

pizza4
You can easily cut calories without sacrificing taste by picking more health-conscious sauces, cheeses, and toppings. Go for a simpler tomato sauce and stay away from sauces that use heavy cream or cheese. Pick up low-fat cheese or fresh mozzarella, which is actually one of the healthier cheese options because it is low in sodium, has no carbs or sugar, and is rich in protein. Fresh mozzarella is also really delicious and melts perfectly! Choose fresh veggies for added healthiness and nutrients.

College Student Probs: Balancing College and the Need for Real Food

Posted on by Elizabeth Suh

(photo source: collegeplanningadvisors.wordpress.com)

Ramen noodles. Easy Mac. Frozen pizza. Pop tarts. What do these have in common? Ohhh yeah, the infamous college cuisine.

So here’s a question: Is it physically realistic or even possible to eat healthy, decent meals in college?

Before I answer…

First of all, since I lived in a dorm last year, I automatically had a meal plan, which included about one meal a day and $300 for restaurants on campus. So, I usually grabbed a breakfast bar on the way to class, ate a meatball marinara from Subway for lunch, and ate in a school cafeteria for dinner. 

This year, living off campus in an apartment, I do not have a meal plan. I figured I would do the same for breakfast and lunch, but at least cook dinner. I soon learned that I barely had time for this! I spend the majority of the hours I’m actually at my apartment sleeping. I resort to fast food or restaurants on campus when I don’t have time to return to my apartment. And when I do have about 10-15 minutes to make dinner, it’s a simple pasta or some macaroni (but made on the stove, of course).

So here is my answer: It can be realistic and possible, both if you have a meal plan/live on campus or not. But it can be a challenge and may require schedule readjustments. 

  • If you have a meal plan or are stuck on campus:
    • Go to the restaurants available that offer the healthiest choices. For example, don’t get greasy pizza when you can choose a grilled chicken salad. Also, go for water instead of soda. Saves you money, too.
    • If you can, take back fruits or healthy snacks from the cafeterias. Save them for later. Again, this saves you money you could’ve spent at the vending machine full of Grippos and cookies.
    • If you don’t have a meal plan or are not on campus:
      • Personally, I find this more challenging because the cafeterias are more expensive than buying groceries. But cooking is more time consuming, and you have to be in your apartment or home to cook. So, the first step is spending more time in your apartment; do some homework once in a while there instead of in the library.
      • Try waking up 10 minutes earlier than usual a few times a week to pack yourself lunch.
      • Try taking out 30 minutes out of watching T.V. with your friends or out of nap time (which is an impossible request for me) to cook yourself some dinner, and maybe for you and your friends if you’re at their place; basically, dedicate some time in your schedule for, well, food.
      • When you do cook, cook something that will last more than one day in the fridge and make a lot of it.
      • Buy some healthy snacks such as nuts or fruit; even if you’re not too proud of your meals, you can try to take in some nutrients in small doses throughout the day.

And I saved the best for last: The best option, especially in the beginning and end of the school year? Find events for free food on campus!

 -What are some things you do to get wholesome meals during college?

Creative Meals to Take to Work

Posted on by Kristin Rogers

While working at your summer job it can be hard to know what to eat on your lunch break. Sometimes depending on the shift, breaks can be as short as fifteen minutes! Fifteen minutes is hardly enough time to leave and find food. If you’re like me, you don’t want to pack a quick pouch of pop tarts or even chips because you’re worried about nutrition. I’ve discovered how to turn break time into a quick nutritional pick me up, here’s how to.

The first step is to bring a bottle of water from home. There is no use in spending your hard earned cash in a vending machine for a sugary pop or energy drink.  Bringing a bottle of water isn’t only free; it’ll keep you hydrated and healthy on the job. Next, pack fresh foods that you cannot find in a package! This might take you waking up five minutes earlier in order to prepare your food, but you will be saving time and money when your break arrives. I always get up early and prepare my break food while I’m in the kitchen for breakfast.

A great thing to make fresh and quick is a sandwich. Make sure you keep bread, condiments, and fresh veggies in your fridge! My sandwiches usually consist of wheat bread, turkey, cheese, fresh lettuce, onion, pickles, and occasionally a little bit of  mustard. If you aren’t into sandwiches try creating a salad to go! Find some tub-o-ware, and begin the process! I usually combine lettuce and spinage in mine. Include your favorite dressing on the side to avoid soggy salad later. Add shredded cheeses, onion, tomato, peppers, and whatever else you enjoy! This is a great a fast option for a healthy main course.

When it comes to side dishes there are many options. Throw in your favorite yogurt and a spoon; include a side of fresh strawberries or grapes as well because they are easy to pack. You might also like to throw in an apple or banana for fruit; they are also very easy to pack quickly. If you feel the need for more sustenance, try adding one of your favorite granola bars as well. Try avoiding potato chips, but it you want a healthy substitute, use pretzels, animal crackers, or a couple graham crackers. Each of these substitutes provides a delicious flavor and still has the crunch effect. All of them are also extremely low in fat.

In conclusion, there are many ways to save money and eat right quickly while on the job. All it takes is a little preparation to enjoy a meal straight from your kitchen. You’ll love the feeling of eating healthy and you’ll be surprised at your energy levels throughout the day because of your good nutrition choices. Give it a try and feel the difference!

Meal Plan Running Out?

Posted on by Kelly Craig

The end of the year doesn’t just mean your classes are ending, it means the end of your meal plan too.  Many of us get caught realizing this too little too late.  If you are in need to stretch your meal plan to keep you fueled up during final time, check out these tips:

One option is to simply add more to your meal plan.  This is most likely the most expensive but most convenient route.

Does your school let you take a meal to go?  This could be used to your advantage.  Fill up that to go box with the two P’s, produce and protein.  Most dishes can be stretched easily.  Going to the grocery store or local farmer’s market for lettuce to stretch out cafeteria dishes by making them salads.  Some cafeterias I have eaten at have a Taqueria or Mexican section.  Filling up a to go box with shredded chicken and salsa can be stretched by making a Mexican salad in your dorm.  Other dishes can be stretched out with rice or pasta.  Make it healthy and look for multigrain, which sometimes only costs a few cents extra. To go boxes also leave you with more than one meal, even by an athlete’s standards.  This way, using one block or meal can end up providing you with a couple meals.

Pick your meals wisely.  If you have a big breakfast, could you make it to dinner with only a few snacks?  Breakfast is the cheapest meal to eat in your room as you can get cereal, a large tub of yogurt, box of farina, carton of eggs (if you have stove access) or a large tin of oatmeal each of which are not costly and will last.  If you factor out that you can have one meal in the cafeteria a day,  make it lunch.  This way you will be most full in the middle of the day, good for your budget and good for you digestion.  You will need some dinner meals though.  Some cheap but healthy dinner items to stock up on are rice, beans, soup, frozen veggies, and frozen dinners.  A word on frozen dinners: be sure to check the Nutrition Facts to see how much food you are getting for the price.  I have found that Healthy Choice meals give you more food for the same price and quality as Lean Cuisine.

If most of your meal plan is consumed by coffee (and/or tea), price out how much you can save by buying instant coffee or tea packets in bulk.  I know what you’re thinking, instant coffee is nothing to your Starbucks Frappuccino.  Some instant cappuccino mixes are surprisingly satisfying.  General Foods International’s 100-Calorie Packs of French Vanilla Cappuccino Mix is a personal favorite and cheaper than my usual Starbucks order.

Although I am not advising anyone to go on a liquid diet, staying hydrated can keep you feeling full longer.  Make sure to drink water or herbal tea throughout the day.  This is especially important as there is a lot of salt in Ramen, a classic college staple food.
Just think that in a few weeks, you will be home eating as you’re used to.

– TravelBug

Easy Dorm Room Recipies

Posted on by Austin

Many of us have been in the unfortunate situation where we must decide between spending the last $10 on food or beer. Should I buy a six-pack and eat the week old Chinese leftovers? Or should I order a pizza and stay at the dorm tonight? These are decisions that can be avoided with a weekly trip to the grocery store and a microwave. In 5 minutes or less you can have a tasty meal, and still have enough money left over for booze. Try these suggestions:

Micro Nachos

Ingredients- Tortilla chips, shredded mild cheddar cheese (or that mozzarella that’s been in your mini fridge all month, any cheese will work). Optional: sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes.

Prep time: < 5 minutes

Serves: 1-2

Directions: Place tortilla chips on a microwave safe plate, spread out chips to ensure equal cheesiness. Cover with 1 cup or more of shredded cheese, and spread out to ensure equal cheesy deliciousness. If your grocery budget allows, add lettuce and tomatoes. Microwave for 40 seconds or until cheese is melted. Add sour cream after cooking.

To take these to the next level, add ¼ pound (precooked) smoked beef sausage and ¼ cup barbeque sauce before cooking.

Bacon Macaroni


Ingredients- EasyMac©, bacon.

Prep time: 5-10 minutes

Serves: 1

 

Directions: Place 2 paper towels on a plate, add 3 to 5 strips of bacon, and cover with 2 more paper towels. Microwave 1 minute for each strip of bacon. Microwave macaroni according to directions. Cut bacon into small pieces and add to macaroni. Add salt and pepper if desired.

S’mores


Ingredients: Hersheys© chocolate, graham crackers, large marshmallows.

Prep time: < 5 minutes

Serves: 1

 

Directions: Place 2 graham crackers on a microwave safe plate, with 4 marshmallows on top of each. Microwave for 20 seconds. Add chocolate to top (hot marshmallows will melt chocolate).

For added taste, put peanut butter on graham crackers before cooking.

Scrambled Eggs and Bacon


Ingredients: Large eggs, bacon, cheese (optional).

Prep time: 5-10 minutes

Serves 1-2

 

Directions: Place 2 paper towels on a plate, add 3 to 5 strips of bacon, and cover with 2 more paper towels. Microwave 1 minute for each strip of bacon. Crack eggs, discard shells, and place in a microwave safe cup. Add 1 tablespoon of milk (or 2 tablespoons for fluffier eggs) and stir for 30 seconds. Cover with a paper towel and microwave for 1 to 1 ½ minutes. Stir again and add cheese if you’d like. Add salt and pepper if desired.

Banana Nut Oatmeal


Ingredients: 1 banana, 1 oatmeal packet, milk, honey, walnuts (optional).

Prep time: < 5 minutes

Serves: 1

 

Directions: Add oatmeal, ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoons walnuts (optional), 3 tablespoons honey, stir, then add peeled banana into a microwave safe bowl. Microwave for 2 minutes. Mash banana after cooking and stir again.

Cheesy Baked Potato


Ingredients: 1 russet potato, shredded cheddar cheese (mild or sharp), butter or margarine, sour cream (optional)

Prep time: 12 minutes

Serves: 1

Directions: Clean potato with hot water, poke with fork several times. Place in microwave on microwave safe plate for 5 minutes. Be careful, potato will be extremely hot. Turn potato over and cook for approximately 4-5 more minutes or until soft. Cut potato in half (again potato will be very hot) and mash inside of potato with a fork. Add 1-2 tablespoons of butter or margarine and spread. Add ¼ cup shredded cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Put back in microwave for 45 seconds or until cheese is melted. Add sour cream if desired.

Hot Diggity Dogs


Ingredients: Hot dogs, sliced American cheese, flour tortillas.

Prep time: < 5 minutes

Serves: 1

 

Directions: Wrap up hot dogs in paper towel, microwave for 20 seconds. Be careful dogs will be hot (they’re not called cold dogs), take dogs out of microwave. Place 1 cheese slice on each tortilla, put dogs on top and roll up tortillas. Microwave for an additional 10 or 15 seconds or until cheese is melted.

Tuna Mac and Cheese


Ingredients: EasyMac©, 1 can solid white albacore.

Prep Time: < 5 minutes

Serves: 1-2

 

Directions: Add water to fill line and cook EasyMac© according to directions on package. Add tuna and stir for 30 seconds. Add salt and pepper if desired.

Chicken Parmesan Sammy


Ingredients: Frozen chicken nuggets, tomato sauce, bread or hamburger bun, mozzarella cheese slices, Parmesan cheese.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Serves: 1

 

Directions: Cook chicken nuggets according to directions on package. Spread 1 tablespoon tomato sauce on each side of bread. Cut 1 slice of mozzarella cheese in half, placing 1 piece on top of tomato sauce on each side of bread. Place nuggets on top of bread and add 1 tablespoon of parmesan cheese. Put bread together and microwave for an additional 5 seconds.

Chicken Flavored Popcorn


Ingredients: Unsalted popcorn (not butter popcorn), Ramen© noodles (chicken flavored preferably, but any flavor will work)

Prep time: <5 minutes

Serves: 1-2

Directions: Pop corn in microwave. When popcorn is popped, open top and add Ramen© Noodles flavor packet (throw away noodles) and shake for 2 or 3  minutes.

Austin

I’m reading Human Anatomy and Physiology