Wellbeing tips during the summer period

Whilst the summer period can be a great time for relaxation, we understand it may feel challenging at times. You might find yourself feeling a bit lost or isolated. Remember, you aren’t the only one who might feel this way. It is a very natural and common feeling, but it will not last forever. We have included some tips below that might help during this period. When it comes to wellbeing, sometimes it’s the small and consistent changes that make the biggest difference.

• Summer time can mean you have more free time on your hands. You might be unsure of how to spend this time or don’t know where to start. Creating a schedule in a diary or weekly planner can be a great way to map out your time. Try to include a balance of self-care activities (e.g., cooking a nutritious meal, exercising, having a bath, doing a face mask), leisure activities (e.g., socialising with friends, arts and crafts, baking, watch a film) and productive activity (e.g., cleaning your home, working a summer job).

• Summer could be a good opportunity to explore your own interests. Have a think, what activities do you enjoy? What makes you feel happy? It could be anything from meeting up with a friend, watching your favourite tv programme or simply enjoying a hot drink. Perhaps you could journal or make a list of what comes to mind for you. Then, if you catch yourself feeling low in mood, it can be a cue to engage in an activity that brings you some comfort.

• This is one might sound less interesting, but try and live a healthy lifestyle. Drinking plenty of water, exercising and eating a healthy balanced diet all impact how we feel. You could be creative and experiment with a new recipe book or choose a form of exercise you will enjoy. York leisure centre has a range of fitness classes including group cycling, yoga and pilates https://www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/york/york-leisure-centre

• Focusing on the present moment can help to reduce rumination and help us cope with difficult thoughts better. You could try out some meditation or breathing exercises, which apps such as headspace https://www.headspace.com/ and calm https://www.calm.com/ can support with. Alternatively, you could practice paying more attention to your senses during your daily routine e.g., whilst washing up or eating a meal.

• Connecting with people socially can help boost our mood. You could give your friends/family who live further away a video call or phone call!

• Be mindful of your environment. When life gets on top of us, it is easy for clutter to accumulate in our living spaces. But, maintaining an organised space can help us feel calm and in control. You could start small, dedicating 10 minutes a day to tidying up your space or choose a specific day for a certain chore.

• Have a go at using the wisdom app. The app is designed to help students monitor their wellness and navigate challenging times https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/wellbeing-and-welfare/health-assured-service/

• If you’re experiencing mental health difficulties, you can self-refer for support by completing a self-referral form  https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/wellbeing-and-welfare/wellbeing-support/