Self care on campus
Taking a break every so often is really important for your wellbeing, and our campus offers a whole host of places to go and things to do to relax. Here are a few of our recommendations.
Sit down for a proper meal
We’ve all got busy lives, so can all be guilty of snacking on the go a lot of the time. Why not combine meeting a friend with a sit down meal, and really make time to catch-up?
There are lots of different places to eat on campus, including The Refectory and plenty to choose from in Union Square too. That’s before you venture across Woodhouse Lane or into Hyde Park, where there are even more cafes and restaurants.
Take your time over a coffee
While you’re at it, why not treat yourself to a cake too?
Half an hour to enjoy a cuppa isn’t a big chunk of your day, but it can really make a difference to your concentration and energy levels.
There are plenty of cafes on campus, and in the surrounding area to get a coffee or tea, whatever your preference is. You’ll be glad you did.
Enjoy the great outdoors
There are some lovely green spaces in and around the University campus, so have a wander in St. George’s Field, or venture a bit further to explore Hyde Park.
If you can only spare a few minutes, watching the ducks at Roger Stevens pond or seeing if you can spot the Peregrine Falcons on the Parkinson Tower will give you a quick nature fix.
Get some exercise
It doesn’t necessarily have to be strenuous — movement of any kind will do the trick and boost your endorphins.
The Edge, and Cromer Terrace Studio both offer a range of classes every day, so there’s bound to be something you’ll like.
Catch a concert
You can see performances from our home-grown School of Music talent as well as visiting classical musicians on campus, and many of the concerts are free. Take a look at what’s coming up in the concert series here.
You can also check out the gig listings for the Student Union events, but do be aware that tickets often sell out far in advance for popular acts, so you can’t always make a spontaneous decision to go along.
Make a canine friend
If you are missing a pet from home, or simply need the company of a furry friend, Leeds University Union run regular pet therapy sessions where you can enjoy the calming influence and company of some friendly, specially trained dogs.
There are several regular “happiness hounds” that take part, but whoever is taking their turn that day, you won’t be able to resist the appeal of that soft fur and wagging tail.
More of a cat person? Then Leeds Kitty café will be right up your street.
Read a book, just for fun
You might feel like you’re swamped with lots of reading to do for your studies, but when’s the last time you read a book just for enjoyment? It’s the perfect way to take a quick break while doing something mindful, and the beauty is that whether you prefer traditional paper or e-books, they’ll easily fit in your bag.
Books can offer an interesting perspective, insight, or simply escapism, and with Leeds Central Library being free to join, and just down the road from campus, it needn’t cost you a penny to borrow plenty of books and other items (up to 20).
Taking care of yourself is the most important thing you can do to stay healthy and enjoy your time at Leeds. There’s lots of support on our student website for looking after your mind and body.
What does self care mean to you? Let us know your favourite ways to unwind and take time out on all the usual channels:
