Being a student is one of the most exciting times in most of our lives, but there is no denying that it can be extremely stressful as well. A busy academic timetable and the pressure of essays and exams, compounded by frequent socialising and a lack of time alone, means that your body and mind face a lot of strain from term to term.
Living in London can exacerbate the issue even further. There are huge plus points to having the many delights of England’s capital on the doorstep – not least the world-class venues and events – but there is no denying that this 9 million-strong city can be utterly overwhelming, especially for those who grew up in more rural areas.
If you are currently studying in London, use this guide to help you maintain your mental and physical wellbeing throughout the year. You don’t want poor health to stop you enjoying all of the opportunities of the capital and your degree.
Seek out nature
Sometimes it can feel like there is no nature to be found in London. The city is chock-a-block with buildings, and you likely spend a good portion of your time riding around on the Underground. However, there are a number of green spaces that will help to rest and recharge a tired mind!
Hyde Park is an obvious choice with its wide fields and convenient city centre location. You could also visit the spectacular Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew to see the exotic trees and flowers. For more wild woodland, head out to the Richmond Estate which is a haven for deer and other animals.
Prioritise exercise
Especially if you do not have the luxury of getting out into nature as much as you would like, make sure that you are prioritising exercise in other ways.
An easy way to get more exercise in London – and to see more of the city – is to travel less on the tube and head out on two feet instead. Cycling is also a popular way of getting around but be sure to take care and wear sensible protective gear.
You may also find it worthwhile joining a gym, either on the university campus or in your local area. This does involve a cost, but it is well worth investing money into looking after your physical health. A rolling monthly subscription is an option, or personal loans for students are available to help you afford an annual pass before the year starts which works out cheaper in the long run. Remember to pay back anything you borrow as soon as your student finance comes in.
Get enough sleep
One of the most vital ways to maintain a positive physical and mental wellbeing is getting enough sleep. Sleep is an essential part of recovery for our body and contributes towards good cognitive function.
However, it can be hard to get plenty of sleep when you are at university. You are often surrounded by friends, even when at home, and there are endless invitations to go out on the town either to parties or special events.
As far as possible, try to establish an evening routine that allows you to get a full eight hours of sleep on a regular basis. You should also avoid doing late-night cramming and relying on caffeine to fuel you through the day. It might be tempting when you feel behind on your work, but these kind of habits will only lead to burnout.
