Whilst at University, it can be difficult taking complete care of yourself. It’s easy to just eat junk food, go out drinking and stay in bed. Not that there is anything wrong with this from time to time as we all need a break. However, it can be easy to fall into this lifestyle and allow it to become routine.
So, for today’s blog, we’re going to share with you how self-care can have a positive effect on not only your physical health but your mental health too.

Step 1 – Relaxation

Between Uni work, trying to find the time to see family and friends and working part time jobs, it can be so hard to find the time to relax. Your mental health is so important, finding time to relax will help reduce stress levels, improve negative sleeping patterns and boost your mood. Reducing your stress levels is key as being stressed can cause you to lose concentration and focus, which you’re going to need with the exam period fast approaching. Boosting your mood and feeling positive isn’t only good for you but also the people around you.
Everyone will have their own ways of relaxing. There are many different methods that work so you should find ways that work best for you. Some people like to listen to music, read, watch films or go for a walk/run.
Not everyone realises it but tidying and cleaning your room also helps you feel more organised and is relaxing to some degree as you’re taking the time to do something for yourself, hence the saying ‘tidy room, tidy mind’. You might find relaxing easier if you have a clean and tidy room too.

Step 2 – Early Nights

When you’re at Uni, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of late nights as these are either spent out partying or revising until early hours of the morning. However, getting a full night’s sleep is also key to improving your overall mood.

It is said that most adults need at least 8 hours’ sleep a night. It’s better to get your sleep all in one rather than taking naps throughout the day. Sometimes, it might be unavoidable but taking naps will only keep your brain more awake through the night.

By not getting enough sleep, you’re risking weight gain, moodiness/low and quiet moods and concentration difficulties.

Step 3 – Healthy Eating & Drinking

Maintaining a healthy balanced diet has many benefits to the body as well as your mind. Improving your diet will help you feel more positive, think clearly, keep a calm balanced mood and boost your energy levels.

It can be very hard to try and maintain a balanced diet at Uni due to lack of time for meal prep and money and it’s all too easy to grab junk food when you’re out and about. Furthermore, a lot of meal times may be spent with friends where you’re more likely to eat out or order in. There is nothing saying that you shouldn’t eat out from time to time and enjoy yourself but keep in mind what the healthier options are on the menu.

Drinking plenty of water will also benefit your mind and body. Sometimes, if you’re finding it hard to concentrate, it can be caused by dehydration. You don’t just have to drink bottles of boring plain water all day, you can try mixing things up a bit by having herbal teas, tonic water or adding some dilute if needs be.

However, staying hydrated doesn’t mean just drinking pop and alcohol as these don’t have the positive effects that water does. To save yourself buying bottle after bottle of water, take a reusable bottle.

Step 4 – Staying Active

Keeping fit and healthy not only has a positive impact on the body but, studies have shown that exercise can treat mild to moderate depression just as effectively as medication. Staying active relieves stress and tension while boosting your physical and mental energy.

You might think that as a Uni student you won’t be able to afford going to the gym however, most gyms around universities are cheaper than other places. This is because they know that the area will be surrounded by students on budgets. Even if you’re not a fan of gyms, try going for a walk or run a few times a week. You could also do a home work out as there are many apps and fitness DVD’s available nowadays.

If you’re thinking you don’t have the time to exercise you can build your work out into your daily routine. This means instead of using public transport, walk or instead of using the escalator or lift, take the stairs.

Step 5 – Mindfulness & Communication

Being mindful is about being aware of your thoughts in a non-judgemental way. Once you are mindful about your own body and thoughts, it will help you to remain calmer and less judgemental about other situations and people. There are mindfulness practises out there such as meditation which have been linked to low anxiety levels and stress.

You don’t have to meditate to be mindful, there are apps available such as Headspace which have the same effect.

We all have our own problems and worries, and it is important that we talk about these things. It’s your choice who you choose to talk to whether that is family or friends. Vocalising your thoughts and feelings encourages you to admit your feelings and conclude how you can overcome certain situations.

You should still socialise as being around the people you love, and trust is the best way to relax and have fun. Remember, there are different ways that you can socialise without staying up all night in clubs and bars.