Written by Dominic Giuliano
I don’t know about you, but as a student, things start cranking up this time of year.
Juggling deadlines, placements and work commitments, all while maintaining a semblance of a social life – it’s full on!
As a student, you learn to cope with these extra demands. But let’s be real for a moment.
It can be intense at times!
You’re asking a lot of yourself and at times like these, it’s really important to keep your mental health in check.
My name is Dom, and as a Psychology Masters student, I’d like to share some self-care routines I use to surf the chaos.
Sleep is Key
One sure-fire way to make tomorrow better is to get a good night’s sleep. This is especially true when things get busy and fatigue sets in.
I take sleep so seriously that I even sport a sleep mask and earplugs each night to prevent lights and noises from messing with my Zzz’s.
Sweat the Stress Out Through Exercise
I love movement; running, walking, and lifting are how I release stress. If I can do it outdoors and catch a sunrise – even better!
I know I’ll be too tired to exercise at the end of a hard day, so it’s the first thing I do when I wake up.
Eat Well, Feel Better
With all that time devoted to working and studying – meal prepping is something I’d rather not do. So I outsource it!
My favourite meal prep plan sends me tasty meals each week that I know are healthy and, as an added bonus – no cleaning, shopping, or cooking time required!
The time I save can be better spent doing other important things.
Moments of Mindfulness
We’re all told to meditate, relax, take time out etc etc. But it’s not always easy to find the time.
Instead, I sneak in active mindfulness during everyday tasks, like making my morning cup of coffee.
I savour the aroma of the beans, notice the colours, feel the warmth of the cup, and listen to the sound of water brewing.
In our hurried lives, we often move from one task to the next without fully appreciating the richness of our sensory experiences. Mindfulness prompts us to remain in the present, relish our senses, and purposefully enjoy the moment we are in.
Have a ‘Fun Budget’
I like to celebrate my wins with a fun budget – purposefully making time in all the chaos for rewarding activities with friends and family.
Don’t Go Through This Alone
Did you know as a Charles Sturt student we have access to a wealth of free resources and support services? Charles Sturt has some awesome self-help fact sheets if you’re seeking information about something that’s worrying you. Alternatively, students can access free and confidential counselling services to help get you back to your best.
Well, that’s enough from me! Don’t forget to look after yourself and check in on your mates during this busy time!
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