As you gear up for a new academic year, returning to university after a relaxing summer break can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re navigating new classes, meeting friends, or trying to balance your workload, establishing a solid self-care routine is crucial to maintaining your well-being. Here are some self-care tips and routine strategies to help ease you back into university life.
1. Prioritise Sleep
It’s easy to fall into the habit of late nights and early mornings when uni life gets busy, but sleep is one of the most important factors in staying physically and mentally healthy (and trust me, you’ll need it!). Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. This can improve your concentration, memory, and mood—key factors in handling academic challenges.
Tip: Create a calming bedtime routine to help you wind down. Avoid screens for an hour before bed and opt for relaxing activities like reading, stretching, or meditating.
2. Stay Active
Exercise is not only great for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Incorporating regular movement into your routine can reduce stress, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. Whether it’s a quick workout in your room, a walk across campus, or hitting the gym, moving your body can make a world of difference. And a tip from me – don’t force yourself to the gym after a big night out… it’s painful!
Tip: If you’re short on time, try fitting in mini workouts or stretches between study sessions. Even a 10-minute walk can help reset your mind.
3. Meal Prep & Eat Mindfully
Balancing a healthy diet with a busy schedule can be challenging. However, fueling your body with nutritious meals is essential for maintaining focus and energy. Consider meal prepping at the start of each week to ensure you have quick, healthy options ready when you’re too busy to cook.
It’s equally as important to feed into your cravings. Especially during exam time, eat what you want! Ignore the myriad of “healthy” eating myths out there, and focus on what you enjoy eating the most, with some added veg/whole foods.
Tip: Try to incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Pack snacks like nuts, fruits, or protein bars to keep your energy levels steady during the day.
4. Create a Study Routine
Stress often comes from a disorganised schedule or last-minute cramming. Avoid this by creating a study routine that allows you to manage your academic workload without burnout. Break down assignments into smaller tasks, and set realistic goals for what you can achieve each day.
Tip: Use a planner or digital tools like Google Calendar and Notion to organise your study sessions and deadlines. Make sure to schedule regular breaks to avoid mental fatigue.
5. Set Boundaries with Technology
While social media and online platforms are great for staying connected, they can also be overwhelming and lead to comparison or distraction. Set boundaries with your screen time by scheduling digital detoxes throughout the week.
Tip: Designate “no-phone” zones, such as during meals or before bed, to help reduce your screen time and create a more mindful daily routine.
6. Stay Social, But Practice Balance
University is a time to enjoy social interactions, but it’s important to balance social life with your personal needs. While hanging out with friends can be a great stress reliever, don’t forget to set aside time for yourself. It’s okay to say no to plans if you need time to recharge.
Tip: Plan some solo activities that you enjoy, like reading, walking, or journaling, to reconnect with yourself amidst a busy social calendar.
7. Manage Stress through Mindfulness
Returning to university often means facing academic pressure, but you can combat stress by incorporating mindfulness techniques into your routine. Meditation, breathing exercises, and journaling are great ways to stay grounded and present.
Tip: Start with short, guided meditations or use apps like Headspace or Calm. Just 5-10 minutes a day can have a big impact on reducing anxiety and improving focus.
8. Seek Support When Needed
Don’t hesitate to seek support when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Most universities offer mental health services, academic support, and peer counselling. Having someone to talk to—whether a professional or a trusted friend—can make a huge difference in your well-being.
Tip: Familiarise yourself with the support services your university offers, and don’t be afraid to reach out early if you start feeling stressed. They do help!
Returning to university after a long break is the perfect time to reset and build routines that support your mental and physical health. By incorporating these self-care practices into your daily life, you can reduce stress, stay energised, and make the most of your time back on campus. Remember, taking care of yourself is the first step in succeeding both academically and personally.
Taking small, consistent steps can have a long-term impact on your well-being, helping you thrive throughout the year!
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