Top tips for boosting your wellbeing

In this video, students Claudia, Lucas and Rachel share some top tips for how you can achieve the '5 Ways to Wellbeing' as a Falmouth student.

5 Ways to wellbeing

As students, it's really important to look after our mind, body and those around us. Taking small steps can have a big impact in helping you find balance between your work and wellbeing. So, these are the five steps towards better wellbeing.

Be active

Moving around not only keeps us physically fit but can also help improve our mood and relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. Even something as simple as a stroll on the beach, a kick about in the park, or a dance where nobody's watching, can really do wonders.

If you're looking for a new hobby, the Students' Union has so many different sports clubs for you to try, from tap dancing to tennis, so check out the A to Z on their website and see if anything takes your fancy. Or if you're looking to get your blood pumping, why not come down to the Sports Centre? But remember, it doesn't matter what you do as long as you're up and about and enjoying yourself.

Connect

Good relationships are so important for staying well, allowing us to share positive experiences and gain a sense of belonging. And as a student, there are so many different ways you can connect -  whether through your course, societies, flatmates, work friends or hanging out at the Stannary. And don't forget to pick up the phone and check in with people back home every now and then too. We know it can be hard to put yourself out there, but once you do it a few times you'll start feeling much more confident. Remember, everyone really is in the same boat.

Give

Whether it's a smile, a thank you, or a random act of kindness, giving to others creates positive feelings as well as a sense of purpose and reward. Spending time with friends and relatives who need company and support is a great way to give back too. And remember, it's equally important that you accept compassion from others as well. Want to give back to the community? Check out the Students' Union, where you can find ways to become a 'volunteering icon'.

Take notice

Making time to focus on the here and now, within our sometimes busy and confusing lives, can also help us understand our thoughts and feel calmer. Being in nature, visiting a new place, paying attention to our senses, or just putting aside five minutes a day to breathe, are all ways you can take notice and feel grounded. A little tip: the Multifaith Chaplaincy on campus is a great place to find somewhere quiet to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of student life, and the team are always there with a listening ear and the kettle brewing.

Keep learning

I find there's nothing better than picking up a new skill or practicing one I already have, and learning throughout life is often linked to better self-esteem and wellbeing. The Library on campus is the perfect place to start, with a whole collection of books, magazines, biographies and films for soaking up some extra knowledge. Or look out for our Wednesday Open Workshops, where you can try your hand at something completely new.

You don't have to dedicate loads of time to learning either. Just discover something that you enjoy and which fits nicely into your schedule, whether it's gaming, juggling or learning Spanish.

So those are the five steps to better wellbeing, and just a few tips we can try. But to find loads more tips and to set reminders for healthy habits, check out the University's mental health and wellbeing tools and resources. 

And if you feel like you need some extra advice, our friendly team are here to help you get the most out of your time at Falmouth. Just drop by The Compass or check out our Student Support pages for all the different ways you can get support.

The most important thing to remember is that it's okay to not be okay sometimes. And there will always be someone you can reach out to.