If you are like me and spent the Christmas holiday in front of the TV consuming endless Celebrations and Quality Streets, the shock of coming back to 9am lectures, assignments and long reading lists may have thrown you into a state of overwhelm. But do not worry! As a master of getting into a panicked frenzy, I have plenty of tips to help you to feel on top of your life.
First of all, nothing will set you up better for the semester than checking in with yourself and regulating your mental health. For me, taking time to journal and document my days and moods makes me feel instantly better. You either get to rant it out on paper and release all your emotions, or delight in the good day you had.
Other things I recommend for mental health are walks – alone or with a friend. If you are feeling socially worn out, listen to music and strut around by yourself. A walk around Blackford Hill is very underrated, with its spectacular views and lack of crowds. Portobello is also a top pick, especially with a slice of pizza…
To deal with the piling stress of work, to-do lists and study dates will become your best friend. Whilst studying alone is sad and depressing, studying with a friend in a cute café – with a slice of cake and cup of tea – is not. You can power through the to-do list whilst catching up with a friend, the best of both worlds!
If you don’t have any New Year’s resolutions yet, cooking hearty, filling and healthy meals should be one. What we eat affects both our physical and mental health, so eating well is a no-brainer. You do not have to bankrupt yourself to do so either: Lidl is great for inexpensive ingredients like fresh veggies!
Whist the makings of good mental health usually are done through good habits, gratitude and sleep, socialising with friends also has the ability to transform your mood. Cute day trips like charity shopping in Stockbridge, National Museum visits, and Picnic Basket lunches will undoubtedly boost your mood and get you out of a bed-rotting slump. So… text that friend and make some plans!
Maintaining a balance in life is easier said than done, but if you record and regulate your moods by prioritising your physical and mental health, whilst socialising in moderation when you want, you should be set for the semester… and for life.
Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash.
