How to Relax When You’re a University Student

Written for Wessex Student Magazine. For an insight into mindfulness, visit https://www.wessexstudent.co.uk/mental-health/mindfulness/

You are juggling assignments, late-night study sessions, and the occasional existential crisis. It’s no wonder you’re feeling more stressed than a cat in a dog park. But fear not! Relaxation isn’t just a mythical beast; it’s attainable with the right approach. Here’s your guide to unwinding when the academic pressure is mounting.

1. Master the Art of Procrastination

Procrastination gets a bad rap, but let’s face it: it’s an art form. Why write that paper now? You could reorganize your sock drawer. Or you could binge-watch an entire season of Your Favorite Show. Embrace the distraction! Just remember to set a timer—because who doesn’t love a good adrenaline rush right before the deadline?

2. Become a Professional Napper

Napping is not just a pastime; it’s a competitive sport. Perfect the power nap by finding the coziest spot on campus. Look for a library corner that looks suspiciously like a sleeping bag. Alternatively, find a sunny patch of grass. Just don’t drool on your notes; that could cost you your academic reputation (and your dignity).

3. Explore the Snack-a-lot

There’s no better therapy than food. Embrace your inner snack connoisseur. Create an elaborate tasting menu of all the snacks you can find in your dorm room. Got leftover pizza? Cold fries? Those mysterious cereal boxes? They’re all gourmet delicacies in your quest for relaxation. Bonus points if you eat them while watching cute dog videos!

4. Host a “Chill” Study Group

Invite your friends over for a study group that quickly morphs into a “How Not to Study” session. Bring snacks. Turn on some music. Engage in deep philosophical discussions about whether Friends or The Office is the superior show. Remember, studying is optional, but laughter is mandatory!

5. Get Your Zen On with Awkward Yoga

Who says yoga has to be serious? Channel your inner yogi while awkwardly attempting poses that you’ll probably fall out of. You can try the “Stressed Student Pose.” It is also known as “Face Down on the Mat.” Or try “The Overthinking Tree.” In this pose, you stand in tree pose but lose balance after five seconds. It’s all about the journey, not the destination… right?

6. Netflix and Forget

Nothing screams relaxation like a good binge-watch session. Choose a series so compelling that you’ll forget about that looming assignment. Pro tip: pick a show that has enough seasons to keep you occupied for days. Just don’t forget to set a 12-hour alarm for your “real” life!

7. DIY Spa Day (Sort Of)

You don’t need to spend a fortune at a fancy spa. Instead, create your own spa experience right in your bathroom! Light a candle, play soothing music, and fill the tub with warm water. Bonus points for adding bath bombs you can never afford (thank you, student discount). Be ready for the awkward moment. Your roommate might walk in. You will then need to explain why you’re sitting in a tub full of glitter.

8. Embrace Your Inner Child

Sometimes, the best way to relax is to revert to your childhood. Build a blanket fort in your room, complete with fairy lights and snacks. Watch cartoons, eat sugary cereal, and pretend you don’t have a single responsibility in the world. If anyone asks, you’re conducting a “research project” on the merits of childhood nostalgia.

9. Get Outside (But Not Too Far)

Fresh air is essential, but let’s keep it realistic. A stroll to the nearest coffee shop counts as a nature hike, right? Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of your campus. If it’s exam week, just focus on the caffeine. Nature can wait!

10. Create a Relaxation Playlist

Create a playlist of your favorite songs. Choose ones that make you feel like you’re lounging on a beach. Imagine this even if you’re actually just sitting in your cramped dorm room. Include tracks that inspire you to dance like no one’s watching. Even if everyone is watching, dance anyway. Add songs that bring back fond memories of less stressful times. Think of high school when the biggest worry was finding a pencil for your math test.

Conclusion

Being a university student doesn’t have to mean living in a constant state of stress. With a little creativity and a healthy dose of humour, you can discover numerous ways to relax. So go ahead, embrace the art of procrastination, indulge in snacks, and occasionally forget about your responsibilities. After all, the best study break is a well-deserved laugh—and you deserve plenty of those!