Kiara Hallows is a third-year PharmD candidate at the Medical University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy.
It’s no secret that being a student pharmacist involves a heavy workload. Ask any of your pharmacy school friends and they will likely tell you they are swamped with deadlines, exams, assignments, and work. You strive to excel academically and professionally, often at the expense of your personal time. This high demand can lead to sacrificing sleep, social connections, and both physical and mental health. Over the years, I have realized the importance of finding ways to de-stress for the sake of both mind and body.
Personally, I find that engaging in enjoyable physical activities outdoors with friends and family is the best way to unwind.
Get outside and stay active
A strong support network can help manage stress by providing emotional and mental backing. My family and friends are my greatest supporters, ensuring that even when I am busy, I can still carve out time for myself. While having a support system is a solid foundation for managing stress, the most crucial aspect is getting outside and staying active. Physical activity is vital for well-being as it can boost energy levels, reduce stress, and improve sleep. Additionally, being outdoors can enhance mood, regulate sleep, and alleviate fatigue.
I have always tried to be physically active to keep my body healthy but always chose activities that were indoors. Pickleball, for me, is a great way to get outside. A year ago, I had no idea what pickleball was, but now I find myself playing weekly and enjoying the fun yet competitive environment. For the few hours that I play, I am not preoccupied with upcoming assignments or tests. I may not be the best at the sport, and I don’t win every game, but laughing over a missed hit, celebrating a point, or even debating whether a ball was in or out leaves me with a sense of ease and accomplishment when I leave the court.
Relationship building on and off the court
Like any sport that is played with a partner or in a group, pickleball is a fantastic way to build relationships and work on communication skills. It is important to have a community within the sport because it can keep you accountable. A set time or day that you can dedicate to your well-being outside of school or work will ensure that you are more likely to stick with it, especially if your friends and family can hold you to it.
So, as a student pharmacist myself, I implore you to get a group together, get outside, and hopefully enjoy a game of pickleball!