University can be filled with positive experiences, but making sure you are looking after yourself can be a real struggle.
Late nights, endless deadlines, and making time for socialising can mean it’s challenging to eat well, find time to exercise and get enough sleep. It’s important to remember that taking care of your body will give you the energy and focus you need to achieve your goals and make the most of student life.
Eating Well
- Don’t skip breakfast – have something like oatmeal with fruit or peanut butter on toast to kickstart your day right.
- Pack healthy snacks like trail mix, granola bars or fresh fruit to keep hunger at bay between classes.
- Limit the amount of take-away and ready meals you have, and keep easy go-to foods like eggs, frozen veggies and canned tuna on hand for quick, healthy meals. Cooking your own meals not only saves you money but also allows you to control what goes into your food.
- Stay hydrated – keep a water bottle with you to refill throughout the day. There are water fountains located on all campuses
Stay Active
- Take advantage of the gym facilities on campus. If you live in halls then membership is free, and for all other students the cost is a reasonable Student (non-resident) – £50 per semester. Why not find out more about the Riverside Fitness Suite?
- Join one of the Students’ Unions Sports Clubs – they’ve got everything from football to trampolining and yoga! Exercise and socialising in one!
- Go for walks or bike rides between study sessions to refresh your mind. Find out more about the University Mile or the Woo Bike Share scheme. If you have to travel between campuses then remember that your commute can be considered part of your daily exercise routine!
- Set reminders to get up and move every hour while studying to boost concentration.
- Don’t sacrifice sleep! Aim for 7-8 hours a night to recover properly. See our blog post about the Power of Sleep.
Making Healthy Habits
- Set weekly goals like cooking 2 meals at home or working out 3 times. Choose something achievable and don’t be too hard on yourself when you are starting out!
- Team up with a friend or housemate to go to the gym or cook a healthy meal together. Having someone to support you and hold you accountable can help you stick to your plan.
- Schedule time to grocery shop, meal prep and workout just like you would class. That way you will reduce the temptation to grab a take-away and avoid the gym.
- Download an app to help track nutrition and water intake.
Your time at university will fly by, but it’s important to remember that creating healthy habits is essential making the most of it. Find a balance that works for you make your health a priority on your journey, both for your physical wellbeing and your academic success.
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