As a master’s student with a dissertation deadline looming at the end of summer, I understand firsthand how crucial it is to find a balance during these busy months. Summer brings the challenge of exams and academic or work pressures but also the promise of sunny days and opportunities for relaxation. Amidst this whirlwind, I’m trying to prioritize self-care and find moments of joy. Here are some of the ways I plan to uplift myself this summer and take care of my mental health:
1. Connect with Nature
There’s something rejuvenating about stepping out into the sunshine and being surrounded by nature. I can’t explain how walks in the park or sitting by a lake flushes anxiety and stress out of my brain, I just know it works. My current favourite spots are the along the river Mersey Didsbury (extra points for the Fletcher Moss botanical gardens) and Whitworth Park. I still love a good city walk and no doubt you’ll see me with an ice coffee in hand, but this summer is all about bird watching and wild swimming, hold the city girl stress.
2. Maintaining Social Connections
I genuinely would have given up this year without my course mates. Despite having no more classes together, meeting up for study sessions and lunch is our favourite thing to do recently. Blending work with social time has been invaluable and I’m so grateful for friends that understand my stress. Planning weekends with family and friends also feels like the best reward at the end of a long week. When I’m job hunting and finishing my dissertation this summer, I know I’ll be grateful for my support system.
3. Practice Gratitude
I find myself daydreaming about life after uni, having a full-time job and getting a wage feels more appealing than ever. But the reality check is that next year I’ll be looking back and missing student life – the freedom, the friendships, the projects I’ve put so much into. Gratitude isn’t a cure-all for mental health, and at more difficult times of my life I would have laughed at the idea that just “being grateful” would help ease my anxiety. But reflecting on the opportunities you have, the progress you’ve made, and the journey you’re on this summer might make the stressful moments seem a bit more worth it.
4. Limit Screen Time
I’ve noticed the more I check my phone, the more distractable and irritable I am throughout the day – not ideal when I’m also dealing with stressful deadlines. I’m exhausted from seeing everyone looking sun-kissed and enjoying themselves when I’m stuck in a lab. So I decided to put screen time limits on all my social media apps, catching up with everyone in the evening instead. Already the change improvement in my focus and mood has been huge. Setting boundaries with social media is definitely in this season.
I hope that some of these ideas have inspired you to be kind to yourself this summer. Remember that taking care of your physical and mental health is just as important as meeting deadlines and preparing for exams.