For many summer time is a time to relax and take a break from University and academic studies. However, if you’re a Postgraduate student you’ll know that although summer might mean a quieter campus it doesn’t necessarily mean a less busy work load. Hopefully you’ll have the opportunity to take a break from your work and studies, but also make sure you’re taking care of yourself day to day as well.
When you have deadlines approaching, and long to do lists its sometimes hard to make time for yourself as you want to get everything done. But taking a step back and taking the time to look after yourself can not only boost your mood and overall wellbeing but can also increase productivity and give you a fresh perspective.
Looking after yourself also shouldn’t become another chore, just small simple tasks that make you happy, and you can do every day;
Stay hydrated
It seems pretty easy, but sometimes we’re so busy or engrossed in something we forget to drink and replace the fluids we lose daily. Aim to drink around 6-8 drinks a day – preferably water, not caffeinated drinks. Staying well hydrated improves concentration and skin.
Get enough zzzzz
It’s pretty obvious that if you’re tired you’re not going to feel as productive. And getting enough sleep will help improve memory. As with most things that help your wellbeing its not ‘one size fits all’ with sleep. Some people need more that others, the important thing is too make enough time in the day to get the amount that’s right for you.
Wake up early
After you’ve made sure you’ve had a enough sleep try getting up a little earlier than you normally would. Rushing around in the morning induces stress and its not a great way of starting the day. So try an get up early enough that you can plan for the day ahead.
Train your brain
Naturally you’ll be stimulating your brain through you’re academic studies, however its also worth taking the time to do something outside your area of work. Read some fiction, take a up a new hobby or having a games night with friends can stimulate your brain.
Food glorious food
Again another one that may seem obvious, but looking after yourself includes eating well. Not only does that mean having a varied diet but it also means taking the time to notice what your eating. How many times are you so busy that you just grab something quick for fuel, but don’t actually take the time to think about what you’re eating. Paying attention to what you’re eating, and when you’re eating can make a big difference.
You should also make sure you treat yourself once in while with a little indulgence, and savour that too.
De-clutter your environment
Take 10 minutes to declutter your workspace. Give yourself a space that you enjoy working in, and know where everything is. You’ll feel more productive and calmer.
Get outside
There are some many new green spaces on campus where you can go an have a relaxing 10-15 minutes. There’s University Green, Brunswick Park, Alan Gilbert Square, or slightly further up Oxford Road to Whitworth Park. Just make sure to take an umbrella as the weather is quite unpredictable these days.
Treat yourself!
Finally do something for you. Treat yourself, whether that’s with a favourite meal, having a relaxing bath, going for a hike, reading a book, watching a film – do something that you enjoy and is just for you.