As we dive deeper into the academic year, maintaining both mental and physical health is crucial. Here's how you can enhance your wellbeing through physical activity, social connections, learning new skills, mindfulness, and community service—all available right here at Newcastle University!
Be physically active
Staying active isn't just about gym routines; it's a vital part of my student life here at Newcastle. I love taking a break from studying to join a yoga class. It really helps me feel refreshed and accomplished, and it's a fantastic way to fulfil those New Year's resolutions to stay active.
There are a variety of classes like yoga, Pilates, and high-energy spin that are included with our university fitness membership, making it easy and affordable. Plus, these sessions are not just about fitness; they're great social spots to meet new people.
Connect with others
In today's digital age, it's easy to fall into the routine of connecting through screens. While technology keeps us linked across distances, nothing replaces the depth and satisfaction of face-to-face interactions. Making it a point to share meals with friends or family, actively reducing screen time during these gatherings, can greatly enhance the quality of these connections.
A common trap many of us fall into when meeting up is what I refer to as the "coffee chat paradox," where our conversations often revolve around past memories rather than engaging in the creation of new ones. This can make our interactions feel repetitive and can limit the growth of relationships. To challenge this paradox, it's crucial to introduce new shared activities into our meetups.
Learn new skills
Building on the idea of overcoming the 'coffee chat paradox,' the Newcastle University Students' Union (NUSU) 'Give It A Go' programme offers the perfect opportunity to create new memories. This programme encourages you to step beyond your usual social and academic circles by offering a variety of activities at discounted prices.
Whether it's pottery painting, Pilates, or crocheting, these activities provide a perfect escape from the regular classroom routine and give you a chance to engage with new people and new ideas.
Mindfulness: stay grounded
One of the most impactful mindfulness practices I've adopted is maintaining a gratitude journal. Each night, I reflect on my day and jot down three things I'm grateful for. This could be as simple as savouring a snack after class or the joy of seeing a playful cat on my way home.
Recognising these moments has taught me to appreciate the privilege of my experiences—like the opportunity to stress over exams because it means I'm getting an education at a fantastic university, or the routine of waking up for class, which is a gift in itself.
Give to others
Volunteering is a powerful way to give back and gain perspective. Whether it's knitting items for charity with the Procrastiknitters or planting trees with the North Pennines AONB, each act of service enriches your life and supports the community.
These opportunities not only help you develop new skills but also foster a sense of accomplishment and connection with diverse groups, enhancing your personal and professional growth. To explore these and other volunteering opportunities, visit the Newcastle University Students’ Union (NUSU) website.
Stay Active, Stay Connected, Stay You
These activities are not just fulfilling; they're also essential for a balanced university experience. They boost your wellbeing, help you build a vibrant social network, and ensure you're making the most out of your time at Newcastle University. Don't miss out—get involved and see how much richer your life can be!
By Angelina, a third-year Marketing student and Student Content Creator