Mental Health Awareness Week – How Movement Can Reduce Stress
University can be stressful and it’s important to consider how we can look after ourselves during these times. This week is Mental Health Awareness Week which, this year, focuses on movement. Here we will discuss a couple of ways we can incorporate movement and other techniques to help reduce stress and look after ourselves better.
The Magic of Exercise.
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Movement has been shown to help our mental health and it can be very fun!
If you’re not a regular gym goer, finding ways to get moving can feel a little overwhelming but no fear! Movement, although great for many, does not have to involve getting a gym membership. Movement can look different for everyone and can include activities such as sports, taking a stroll, or having a go at yoga, it is completely up to you.
To make movement and looking after your mental health more energising, why not create a playlist of your favourite songs to help you feel motivated and raring to go?
Getting Out in Nature.
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Understandably, many of us sit for hours at a time staring into the void of our phones and laptop screens but – as science has proven – getting outside can improve our mood and wellbeing behaviours such as improving our sleep quality.
One study investigated the power of nature. They found that those who could see a green space from their window recovered from illness faster than those who did not. This proves getting yourself out in nature is all worth the while.
If you find yourself feeling anxious or stressed, why not consider a walk or picnic perhaps with your friends or a book for company while you unwind and disconnect for a while?
Making Sense of it All.
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Many of us feel as though our minds are buzzing with thoughts, worries and tasks on our to-do lists but have you ever given journalling a go? Writing our thoughts down can give us clarity and help us think about our worries more clearly.
Perhaps, if you feel overwhelmed, try scribbling all those thoughts down from time to time. Read it back – what advice would you give if your friend were to confide in you with the same worries?
If you don’t fancy yourself a writer, art and crafts are alternative ways in which you can express how you feel when it may be hard to put into words. Why not pop down to a session run by our Mental Health Ambassadors such as Book Club or Crochet & Chat to learn a new skill or unwind?
Other Services and Support.
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Sometimes, however, we need to reach out for further support. In this case, the university Wellbeing team are here to support you at chiwellbeing@chi.ac.uk.
