With the action-packed, non-stop lifestyle of university, it can be easy to forget to make time for yourself and take a break to unwind and recharge your batteries for a busy week ahead. Here are my top five ideas on how to relax, de-stress and prioritise your mental well-being throughout the winter months and beyond:
- Treat yo’ self
Why not treat yourself to a bit of retail therapy…some new cosmetics after a long day of lectures never hurt anybody, right? I’m loving Zoella’s range for Superdrug at the moment, especially the lush Gingerbread bath fizzes which just make life feel that much more Christmassy. There’s also scented candles and body mists ideal for cosy winter nights in and the Pamper Hamper from her winter range looks fab, containing a variety of festive-themed bath products. It would be rude not to!
- Social media
Despite the negative connotations of social media flying around of late, there’s no point denying the positive effects of engaging with empowering and uplifting pages, providing a quick mood-lift within the few breaks in our hectic daily lives on campus. Whether it’s inspiring quotes (check out @thegoodpost on Instagram) or YouTube Vloggers of cute puppy pages, there’s something for everyone. I recommend following @hellogiggles on Instagram and Twitter, a positive online community for women much like our own here at Her Campus Durham, which never fails to perk up my day with positive affirmations, influential celeb quotes and occasionally just photos of cute dogs-what’s not to like?
- Get baking
Embrace your inner Candice and get baking! Baking can be therapeutic and provide a well-needed break from the trials and tribulations of uni life and, y’know, you get to eat some delicious brownies after all of your hard work…
- Meditation
Between cramming in sports activities, society events and study, it can be beneficial to your health (and sanity!) to take ten minutes out of your day to de-stress. I recommend an app called ‘Headspace’, which provides guidance on how to relax your mind and body to help you reach a state of calm and recharge for the busy day ahead. There are also regular Yoga and Pilates classes at the University through DUYAPS (Durham University Yoga and Pilates Society) which are great fun.
- Pamper party
Throw it back to high school sleepovers: invite your girls round, stick on a chick-flick (I’m talking Mean Girls or Wild Child-the classics) and have a good, old-fashioned pamper party. Paint your nails, experiment with make-up, try out face masks or even make your own using a few basic natural ingredients! Check out lifestyle blog cookcraftlove (http://cookcraftlove.com/10-diy-face-masks-body-scrubs/) for inspo.
Have fun and go enjoy yourself!