Boost your health with exercise and movement
Feeling the pressure of deadlines and exams? You're not alone. Our charity partners at Student Minds have shared a blog on how exercise is your secret weapon for mental health.
Exercise and movement are proven to boost your overall health, mood, physical well-being, and academic performance. It can strengthen your immune system, ease pain, and helps reduce anxiety.
Exercise also enhances brain function, leading to better academic performance.
A major study found that university students who exercise regularly perform better academically and enjoy higher levels of wellbeing.
Start small avoid overwhelming yourself.
- Begin with manageable changes such as:
- Increasing your daily steps or active minutes
- Doing a 10-minute yoga session in the morning
- Doing squats while brushing your teeth
Choose enjoyable activities
- Opt for activities you find enjoyable to keep motivated.
- Consider making it social; exercising with a friend can boost your motivation.
Increase gradually listen to your body and adjust your intensity accordingly
- Alternate between vigorous workouts and recovery days with lighter activities.
- Exercise Outdoors Take advantage of daylight by exercising outside, which can improve alertness and sleep patterns.
- Incorporate HIIT Workouts High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is a time-efficient exercise method that can enhance brain function and improve memory.
- Move Throughout the Day Make a habit of moving whenever possible.
- Set reminders to move every 60-90 minutes to improve concentration and take breaks.
Utilise technology
Take advantage of resources like the NHS website, fitness apps, and YouTube for guided routines and exercise ideas.
Remember, any exercise is better than none.
