Arny

Try swimming (no matter, pool, river, sea or ocean). Go for a walk. Meet with people who inspire you and with whom you're feeling relaxed (it's better to meet with friends and family, not with groupmates or colleagues)

I remember once I read an article, where was a statement about the influence of the good sleep on weight loss. So while you're sleeping, you're losing your excess weight. People of Reddit tell the same: https://www.reddit.com/r/GradSchool/comments/3j0ljn/tips_to_stay_healthy_in_grad_school

Hi! I'm afraid that my advice would be outdated (before of the deadline, that probably has passed). I wouldn't trust online critique services, if I were you. It's always better to find a mentor or a fellow applicant, who will help you with this. I would advise you to check Facebook groups, where researches are communicating with each other (it seems that there you could receive a response faster than here). You could also try G+ communities and Academia Edu.

I have troubles with sleep too. Reading a good book in the night helps me to fall asleep faster

Yup, Duolingo is an awesome tool. Gamification + Language Learning.

In my school professors have negative attitude to tattoos. Yes, they are in their 50s and 60s, so they have a conservative point of view on such things. However, some of the students have them. The question is what is more important to you - to express your personality or to build a stable career. Perhaps, you will find open-minded coworkers, that will understand the importance of tattoos for you. You always could make a tattoo in that way, when hiding it under a formal wear is possible.