In a world where we are constantly juggling various responsibilities and commitments, taking time for ourselves can easily slip through the cracks. However, prioritising self-care is essential for maintaining our overall wellbeing and happiness.

In this video, Digital Media Creator Grace shares her tips on how to incorporate self-care into your routine as a student.

If you have been inspired by Grace’s video to try something new, you can find a full list of student societies on the Students’ Union website.

You can also explore more about how to look after your physical and mental wellbeing at university on the Student Hub.

Video transcript

[Digital Media Creator, Grace, stood in Stanmer Park]

Grace: Self-care is incredibly important but often overlooked. Here are some tips on how you can take care of yourself.

What you eat affects how you feel.

[Cutaway: picture of a plate filling up with fruit and veg]

Try adding more fruits vegetables and vitamins to your diet

[Cutaway: a glass of water being filled]

and drinking more water is basically a magic trick for feeling better.

Whether it's yoga, dancing, swimming, or sports, enjoying the exercise you do makes it easier to keep up with.

[Cutaway: to Grace exercising in her room]

If you're lacking motivation, just start with five minutes in your own room.

Sleep is incredibly important for all aspects of your health.

[Cutaway: night outside a window. An iPad being turned off. Grace reading in bed]

If you're like me and sleeping's hard, for the half hour of running up to bed put away devices, put away work and just concentrate on relaxing.

Treating yourself is a good thing.

[Cutaway: Grace eating in a restaurant]

Maybe that's having a nice meal out or

[Cutaway: Grace buying a vinyl record]

buying something you really want, but it's also knowing when it's time to take a break from work and just relax.

Having a change of scenery is incredibly refreshing.

[Cutaway: various places Grace mentions]

Why not check out one of Brighton's many green spaces, museums, galleries, libraries or going to the sea is always a good time.

Whether it's sports, music, baking, art,

[Cutaway: a student playing guitar and then someone painting]

hobbies are an amazing creative outlet. If you're lost for inspiration, try looking online or joining a society,

[Cutaway: Screen record of the Societies page on the Sussex Union website]

we have many here at Sussex and they're also an amazing opportunity to make like-minded friends.

It can be easy to feel isolated as a student so friendship is very important.

[Cutaway: Grace hanging out with a friend]

Invite your friends to things, I'm sure they'd appreciate it. If you're looking for new friends, keep your eye out for speed friending social or community building events. If your friends family and loved ones are far away

[Cutaway: Grace on a video call with a distant family member]

you can always stay connected with a phone call.

Lastly, practicing a positive mindset is invaluable. Try being forgiving of your mistakes and celebrate your achievements. You've already achieved so much so take a moment to be proud of yourself.