Conquering the PT World, One Requirement at a Time

As Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila approaches the final week of online classes for AY 2020-2021, the students from the College of Physical Therapy continue to hustle with the continuing pile of workload. With the Final Exams and Research defense (for 3rd years like me) nearing, studying and other requirements seem to grow more difficult to juggle all in one week.

I, Nagumi Nallana of BS Physical Therapy 3-3, am no exemption to the feeling of anxiety that all students face during these times. Frustration and stress take over me as I give in to the anxiety, thus leaving me in a loop of unproductivity, stress-eating, and over-sleeping.

At times, it takes me a few days to actually get myself back together and finally get things done. With that, I do quite a few things to reset my mind and get inspiration/motivation to keep going:

• I watch productivity videos from my favorite youtubers (ie. Rowena Tsai, Muchelle B, Linh Truong, and etc.)

• Make a list of things I need to do in order of urgency, making sure to highlight based on importance and general weight of the task

• Get my body moving, whether it be a quick 5-minute workout, yoga stretch, or a walk around our neighborhood (of course, keeping in mind safety precautions brought upon by the pandemic) for when I have really busy and overwhelming days

• 5 to 10-minute meditations guided by podcasts ( I don't always remember to do this, but it sure makes a big difference when I do. Keeps my mind from getting too overwhelmed with the load of tasks I have).

• Make myself a nice glass of iced coffee or a cup of tea. Sometimes coffee doesn't even actually keep me awake, but it certainly helps in making me feel more put together and ready to start the day.

• Put make up on and dress up. I truly feel like my best self at times when I look good and have a nice outfit on, and that gives me an extra boost of confidence to tackle the day head on.

• Call a friend or a classmate to do requirements together. This, above all else is what mostly triggers me to start doing what needs to be done. Having an accountability partner gives me the right amount of pressure to pick up the pace and avoid procrastinating and giving in to the

There are other rituals I do on rut days, but those I've mentioned above are what I usually gravitate to. All other rituals aside, I believe that the most important thing an individual can do to avoid burning out and losing motivation especially on such important weeks, is making sure to set aside time to rest, sleep or nap. No matter how busy our day or week may seem, resting will always be essential to keeping us fueled and in good working condition. Make sure to take care of yourselves whilst working hard to achieve your goals!

Remember to take it easy, take it one step at a time, and breathe.

♡,

The Baffled Bunny