Self care and student life don’t typically seem to go together. We’re usually too tired, too stressed and too poor to really put any thought into our rejuvenation routines. But nonetheless, it’s important, and I hate to see people thinking they can afford to skip out on really making themselves feel good.
So, once you get that block in your schedule for a good relaxation sesh (a trial in itself, as all students will know) check out these tips on how to pamper yourself even on a budget.
Find your happy place
Putting yourself in a good headspace is, as commonly known, easier said than done. So, if that’s the case, put yourself there physically. Even better, lots of these places don’t actually cost money.
There are few locations I love more than those surrounding me with books, so I like to go down to the Bristol Central Library and just sit and chill. Even if I’m not reading (or focusing on the reading I’m avoiding), I like to sit and listen to music, play video games, and just enjoy the space.
If that’s not your thing, consider what makes you happy. Maybe it’s a free-to-enter art gallery, like the Bristol Museum near Wills. Or, consider going to a park and just sitting on a bench or beneath a tree. There’s the Suspension Bridge, Brandon Hill Park, Royal Fort Gardens, and so, so many more. Or, just curl up in bed with some jazzy tunes and stay at home. Find a place that works for you and roll with it!
It doesn’t have to be a fancy
I know it can be nice to go buy yourself some special, fancy shampoos and essential oils to really put yourself in a nice headspace, but more often than not, we don’t have the money to spare. If that’s what’s hindering your good time, just know that bigger isn’t always better. Quality products are great, but if you have Sainsbury’s own brand body wash in a scent that makes you happy, use it and focus on how nice it feels to use.
If it makes you happy, it’s gonna be helpful. Even if it doesn’t feel particularly special, it’ll be as special as you make it so long as you keep aware of the fact you’re taking time to make it a treat.
Take advantage of what’s around you
It’s a good feeling when you can independently get all those nice things you want to cheer you up, but that’s not always an option. What you always want to avoid is going halfway in your self care because you’re too shy or too proud to ask for a helping hand.
Bristol Uni libraries stock SAD lamps that you can grab from reception. Spotify Premium for students comes with a subscription to the meditation app Headspace. Your flatmates may well have candles or lotions or tea that they’re happy to share.
It’ll take a bit of searching, sure, but you can stock up easy once you get the hang of it. Even if it’s just calling on your friend and saying, “I’m real sad, can I come over to play Mario Kart?”, it’s always worth asking.
At the end of the day, all of this falls through if you aren’t actually giving yourself time to rest, properly. It’s no good to say, “yeah, I’m taking a break!” where you do nothing but worry about what you haven’t done yet, and try to plan ahead. Take a deep breath, make a cup of tea, and sit with some music and a book. You’ll be fine.