Journal when you feel overwhelmed with emotions, it helps to make sense of your feelings and its important and interesting to look back on!

Go on a mindful walk around the McMaster campus and Cootes Paradise! It really helps to take your mind off things and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Surround yourself with caring friends that lift you up, make time to have fun, and take care of yourself even when school gets busy.

It is okay to take small steps to improve your well-being. Examples can include taking the stairs instead of the elevator or working up to longer mediation sessions over time!

1. Take regular breaks to recharge with mindfulness, journaling, or hobbies

2. Remember to prioritize your mental health by asking for help when needed

A wellness tip for students is to set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Reasonable, and Time-Bound). This approach can help you feel less overwhelmed and reduce the chances of severity of burnout. Another tip is to explore different hobbies, coping strategies, and time management techniques to see what works best for you. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, therefore you only find what helps you succeed through trial and error 🙂

1. Take regular breaks to recharge with mindfulness, journaling, or hobbies

2. Remember to prioritize your mental health by asking for help when needed

Do not put off wellness thinking you need to first prioritize your studies. Your mental and physical wellbeing will not improve until you make it a priority. A tip from me is to keep a wellness journal where you can reflect on areas where you would like to see growth and give yourself a space to check up on your mental wellbeing.

Take plenty of breaks in between study sessions! I usually take a walk or go get a snack to take my mind off things.

Drink plenty of water! Even though it sounds like a no-brainer, water helps you stay cool, focused, and hydrated.

Take a 15-minute walk outside as a study break. The combination of natural light, fresh air, and gentle movement clears your mind, boosts your mood, and recharges your energy levels.

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“Change is a natural part of life, Embrace it, as you and those around you continue to grow and evolve over time.”
“Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would offer a close friend. When self-doubt or negative thoughts creep in, pause and replace them with positive affirmations”

Take time to do something that calms you before bed! Whether it be lighting a candle, reading a book, or journalling, do something that brings you joy and grounds you (instead of working on your computer right up until bedtime!!)

1. Act like the person you want to become.

2. Don’t lose your kindness in the chaos.

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1. Taking some time to meal prep a night before to create a healthy (or add healthy alternatives) to your lunch to nourish your body while it works so hard during the day

2. Don’t forget to smile! It can create such a positive effect for yourself, and others around you creating a healthy environment and mindset.

Keeping the promises I make to myself. If I tell myself I’m going to get a sweat treat after a midterm, I make sure I do!

Going for a walk regularly to reduce stress and to boost my mood.

Always take out time in your day to relax and do something you enjoy.
If you are ever struggling academically or mentally don’t hesitate to seek support, there are so many resources available to you!

1. Take breaks! I know everyone says this but it’s because it is very life changing, and so incredibly important. I schedule in breaks for myself in my calendar and do something that I enjoy during that time, like drawing or sketching, going to the gym, or calling my friends.

2. Progressive muscle relaxation is a method I use to ground myself and relax when I’m feeling overwhelmed. To do this, you can lay down or sit down in a comfortable position, and tense each muscle in your body, one at a time. You start from your legs all the way up to your face, and it always helps to reduce my anxiety.