There are many ways to thrive at university, from wellbeing practices to optimal learning strategies. Each ThriveBox gives insider advice on how to set up for success no matter what program you're studying or what year you're in! But for now, here are our six favourite ways consistently shown by research to help wellbeing:
-
Be in nature: nature is for everyone, and getting outside is one of the most powerful ways to improve your health. Research shows that time outdoors eases stress and anxiety, boosts academic performance, and increases your life expectancy.
- Move more: Adding activity to each day can help you manage stress and can boost your mood.
- Sleep soundly: Getting enough quality sleep can help you tackle classes, work, and life’s daily challenges. Getting at least 7 hours of sleep per day also helps boost your immunity and maintain your physical health.
- Eat well: Eating a balanced diet can help fuel your body and mind, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Fueling your body with nutritious foods can help you eat your way to better health.
- Connect with others: Spending time with family, friends, and community can reduce stress and provide a sense of belonging.
- Give back: Helping others adds to your sense of purpose, connection, and wellbeing. ThriveBox helps students explore ways to let people know you care and give back in our community.
Wellness is different for everyone, and so are the ways to support it. It's important to discover the things that help you build resiliency. This could be through arts, culture or music; connecting with spirituality through religion, meditation or practicing mindfulness; or engaging in cultural tradition. Whatever your path to wellness looks like, we hope that ThriveBox will help you explore ways to support it!
Want to learn more? Check out Healthy by Nature and UBC's Thrive 5.