Posted 15 days ago by Emma Brown

Students across Britain (and everywhere else too!) face a daily struggle: They’re not getting all the essential ‘good things’ that lead to a healthy lifestyle. It’s very hard to feel great when you’re living off of pizza, burgers and chips in your dining hall.

Trying to eat five servings of fruit and vegetables a day can leave you feeling like a rabbit and making sure you’re getting all the necessary vitamins from your diet can puzzle the best of us.

So, we thought we’d give you a  guide to staying in shape and being healthy, which doesn’t require you to sign your life away at the gym.

Step One: Vitamins on the cheap

For as little as £29 in some stores you can purchase all your necessary vitamins and cod liver oils to keep you feeling and looking fresh.

Vitamins A and Riboflavin (B-2) are perfect to counter those pesky spots and blemishes while Vitamin E will make your red blood cells live longer, as well as helping your immune system work at its full potential. Essential when you’re feeling weak after a weekend partying.

Step Two: Smoothies

The best way to make sure you’re getting your 5 a day is with a blender and a bunch of fruit. Avoid buying ready-made smoothies as these can often be expensive.

Making your own allows you to alter the flavours and ingredients, coming up with new recipes each day and sharing them with mates. Once you’ve tasted your lovely creation you may find it difficult to stop, resulting in six, seven or even eight servings of fruit and veggies each day.

Blenders aren’t too expensive and a lot of dormitory buildings have ice machines on each floor. If your’s does not, consider purchasing a mini fridge with a small freezer.

Step Three: Choose Diet

Calm down, we’re not saying go on a diet here. Simply, instead of choosing the full-fat products that are available choose the diet or zero sugar option. All the unhealthy drinks and food you consume add up and if you make small changes to your diet like this the benefits build up and will have a positive effect.

Instead of the full fat milk try semi-skimmed or the red topped no fat, instead of white bread try brown. You get the idea.

Step Four: Get Active, Get Moving

Save valuable money that could be put to better use going towards your summer and cycle or walk to your lectures or to work. That £20 petrol money or £10 weekly bus ticket will all add up after a few weeks leaving you with a nice bit of dough for your holidays.

You’ll also be living a more active lifestyle in doing so, getting exercise daily and keeping you in shape. Try it out and see if you notice a difference in your body’s shape after a five week period.

Step Five: Take Up a Sport

Remember when you were younger and you played every sport imaginable? Me neither. For some, joining the football team, tennis club and having swimming lessons every week was regular routine, others stayed home and played Crash Bandicoot to the early hours of the morning.

It’s not too late to take up a sport though and if you can get your friends involved and form a team it can be great fun. Some sports only require one mate like squash or tennis, so you should be able to find at least one person to get active with.

How do you stay fit and healthy when you’re away at University? Let us know in the comments below!

Posted 300 days ago by Amanda Raye

Fashion isn’t the only thing that has trends, decor does too! Typically, decorating your dorm is the first time you are able to decorate a space entirely yourself. Most childhood bedrooms were originally designed by your mom. Well, in college, it’s all on you, it’s the place you’ll finally be able to discover your personal style.

Dormify, a company that specializes in bold interior design products meant to inspire college students, is here to tell you the secret of what’s trending in dorm decor for fall 2012!

1. Black & White

I think black and white will always be a classic when it comes to decorating and fashion. This contrast is a design statement that is inviting yet unapologetic. If you find yourself to be the type of girl who loves the classic look but is still bold, then this might be what your dorm room needs!

• Houndstooth Quilt: $89.00 at Dormify
• Black Sequin Pillow: $65.00 Dormify

2. Girly

The girly girl look will never be out of style! In order to really embrace your girly personality decorate your dorm with soft and elegant tones. This type of decor will take your sophistication and femininity up a notch…think Gossip Girls! Floral appliques, lace and a splash of shine will all add to the dreamy vibe you’re going for.

• Believe You Can Fly Duvet: $79.00 Dormify
• Flower Pillow: $75.00 Dormify

3. Tribal

This is actually how I decorated my dorm room! I’ve always been attracted to the vibrant colors of India. So I found a way to portray that in my little space. The vibrant and spirited energy of these bright colors recharged, rejuvenated and made me look forward to each and every day. You could also go for the soft yet colorful looks from Morocco!

• Moroccan Sheet Set: $59.00 Dormify
• Reversible Oval Duvet: $70.00 Dormify

4. Haute Chocolate

This trend is meant for the girl who like warm tones. Let sequins bring out your inner diva and black and brown combinations show your modern side. The intertwined patterns and textures allow you to express yourself in the most luxurious ways. Just think of a cafe in Paris!

• See You ‘Round Duvet: $79.00 Dormify
• Cheetah Throw: $45.00 Dormify

How do you think you’re going to decorate your dorm this year? Let us know if you use one of these dorm trends!