Self-care

5 Self-care tips for students

Self-care is not always a widely used term in men’s vocabulary.

On social media self-care is often perceived through a feminine perspective such as skincare routines. Despite this, you don’t need face masks and bubble bath to participate (unless you want to).

November is men’s mental health awareness month, as I’m sure many of you are aware. Self-care practices have benefits for both mental and physical well-being.

You will find you already practice self-care regularly without realising!

So, here are 5 tips on how students can integrate self-care practices into their everyday life and why it’s important for mental health.

 

Exercise

Alongside improving physical health, exercising releases endorphins – a feel-good hormone which can help combat stress levels.

Going to the gym can improve self-confidence and team sports develop your sense of belonging through pride and purpose. Every exercise has its own benefits – even going on a short walk can help clear your head.

Personally, it can be difficult for me to stay motivated to exercise especially during these dark winter months. But I know that afterwards I experience huge benefits like increased focus for tasks, falling asleep easier at night, and choosing more nutritional meals.

Summer walks are my favourite

Sleep

Ideally 7-9 hours of sleep each night is recommended – to give your mind and body time to restore and relax.

It can be tempting to stay up late at night by cramming coursework or watching tv especially after a busy day at work or uni.

You don’t have to miss on nights out with your friends or be in bed by 11pm but stay mindful that regular broken sleep can contribute to burnout and stress.

If you find it difficult to sleep at night, it might be time to research and create a better wind-down routine. Check out my ‘Sleep’s Perspective’ post for tips including meditation and screen-time limits.

the best sleepers :)

follow my instagram for more tips

New hobbies

When life gets busy it can be easy to fall in the same monotonous routine, each week blending into the next. One way I’ve found helps create a positive and relaxed mindset is exploring new hobbies or activities.

Maybe you want to learn a new language, play an instrument, discover your love for cooking, pick up the book you’ve never read or go on a nature walk.

They don’t all require tonnes of effort or time – it can even be as simple as following a new sports team or exploring your music taste on Spotify.

New interests can provide you with excitement and purpose in your life while also providing time to relax and unwind with activities you enjoy.

Quality time

Self-care isn’t always a solitary practice and spending time with loved ones can be a great way to remember how important you are to your family and friends.

Activities as simple as going for a drive with your friends or watching a movie with your siblings can help you forget about life’s worries and improve your mood.

Shared experiences, like going to concerts or traveling, are great ways to spend quality time together with friends and family.

You never know what’s going on in other people’s lives, try to check-up on your friends regularly and don’t be afraid to ask to make plans.

Disneyland Paris with my family

exploring Westport w Caolan + Bow

Treat yourself

Long week at work?

Submitted all your coursework?

Completed a tough gym session?

Why not treat yourself?

This mightn’t be the best financial advice for students, so use this tip within reason.

It could be having a nice coffee to start your day or buying those pair of shoes you have been eyeing for ages.

Maybe it’s having a lie in or a movie marathon at the weekend. Treating yourself for accomplishments can help motivate you to keep going and enjoy life.

grandparents appreciate coffee dates too

My unprofessional advice may seem self-explanatory, but it can be easy to forget the simple things when life gets hectic.

Becoming a student brings more independence, which can be a daunting experience. It’s important to remember you are not alone in feeling this way.

It can be difficult for guys to talk about their feelings or recognise their emotions, which is why its not always easy to talk about mental health. Check up on the men in your life, everyone deserves to feel loved and appreciated!

I have linked a few resources below, if anyone is struggling with their mental health your university provides free, confidential services - never be afraid to reach out for help.

- Orla

A few resources:

Men's mental health

NHS Mental health services

Mind.org self care tips

Student minds' self care for students

Ulster University's Student Wellbeing

Queen's University's Student Wellbeing