Wellbeing Wednesdays: five wellbeing activities to try this week

We are well into autumn and that means chilly weather, warm clothes, and plenty of hot drinks. This can also be a time when the nights get colder and darker, assignments ramp up, and moods can lower. It is important this autumn to maintain a balanced lifestyle more than ever and to keep a focus on activities that boost our wellbeing. Keep reading to find out the ways in which you can improve your wellbeing this week.

I like to make Wednesdays a specific day for ‘wellbeing walks’ as it ensures I get a set break mid-week

Wellbeing walk
Autumn is the perfect time for a walk in nature. The colours, the breeze, and just the right temperature all make for a great walk. Walking is a beneficial way to go outside, get away from work and take some time for yourself. It does not require too much time or effort, so it is really easy to incorporate into your week. It is also proven that walking regularly boosts our immune systems. I like to make Wednesdays a specific day for ‘wellbeing walks’ as it ensures I get a set break mid-week. It is important for me to really make it a ‘wellbeing walk’ by staying off my phone and concentrating solely on the nature around me.

Crafting night
Whether you make it a night with friends or alone, trying a new craft can improve your wellbeing. It allows you to set aside an evening away from work and stress and focus on an enjoyable activity. It can be very rewarding as well and can even give you a new hobby. This autumn, I would recommend a painting night as it is very relaxing, and you can take inspiration from the autumnal scenes around you.

Meditation/mindfulness
Meditation is a great way, after a long day of work, to relax and take your mind off any worries. There are many ways to meditate so it is about testing and trying what works best for you. To start, you can find guided meditation videos online to follow. The website Mindful, for example, offers a step-by-step guide on how to be more mindful in our daily activities and offers an in-depth tutorial on a meditation technique.

Spending time creating your own playlist for different times and moods can provide a great study break

Self-care evening
What better way to relax than a self-care evening? Turn your university room into your own personal makeshift spa. This evening could include a face mask, painting your nails, and pampering yourself. Not only does this relax you before bed but, from my own experience, it also makes you ready to face the next day as you are rejuvenated. It is perfect especially as the nights are getting colder this autumn.

Listening to music
Music is said to have many psychological benefits. This can relax the mind, energise the body, and help people to manage pain better. Therefore, it is no surprise that music is on the list of wellbeing activities this week. Whether you listen to it when you wake up and have a dance session alongside or listen to it at breaks throughout the day to relax you, it can have many benefits for your wellbeing. Spending time creating your own playlist for different times and moods can provide a great study break. So, whether you try one or all of these wellbeing activities this week, it will help you improve your overall mental health this autumn. All of these activities are very adaptable to your own needs and lifestyles to help you get the best out of your wellbeing time. Enjoy them and have a good week.