OK, so you have completed your undergraduate degree, but you want to continue your education with a master of education in adult and continuing education. This is a massive step up from what you’re used to and there is a lot more work involved. Many students experience stress, anxiety and depression whilst at college, and with an increased workload within master’s degrees, mental health events can arise. By taking an interest in your personal mindfulness and wellbeing, not only can it benefit your health but it will also better your academic success. However, it can be difficult to carry these new changes into your everyday life without guidance, so here are a couple of tips to improve your wellbeing and mindfulness.
Mindfulness within the Exam Period
Whether you’re studying for a master in nursing, master of education in adult and continuing education program or even an MBA you’re going to deal with the harsh experience of the exam period. This is when most students experience the highest quantity of stress. In 2008, 80% of students said they frequently experienced daily stress whilst at college. Practicing mindfulness for yourself and others can lower tension levels and relax your mind when college life gets overwhelming. There are exercises that you can practice that will help better your mental health, such as breathing exercises, meditation, increased awareness, improved control, and taking ten minutes out of your day to just do nothing.
Focusing on your breathing can seem easy enough, but it can be exceedingly difficult if you suffer from anxiety or stress. By focusing on your breathing, it can help you be present within the moment, rather than allowing your mind run off to the past or future worries; it will also help calm your mind, which in turn will let you concentrate on your academic studies.
Keep Hydrated
Staying hydrated can seem like an easy thing to do. However, many students get their fluid intake by drinking soda, sugary beverages and alcohol, instead of what they should be drinking, which is water. Drinking several bottles of water a day will help improve the clarity of your skin, flush toxins out of your body, and can improve your mood.
Sleep
Many students seem to be able to function on three hours of sleep, which is pretty impressive, but doing this regularly can seriously affect your health. By not getting enough sleep, you increase your rise of stroke, obesity, diabetes, memory loss, and it can even kill you. Not getting enough sleep means you will struggle to stay awake when in class or studying for your master’s exam. You are also more likely to be prone to higher stress, anxiety and depression levels, which is the reverse of what you want when practicing for mindfulness.
Talk to Loved Ones
Calling your parents may not be the coolest thing to do, but by doing this it can boost your mood and decrease the feeling of loneliness. It’s also beneficial to remind yourself that you’re not alone and that there is someone out there who loves you.
When improving your wellbeing and mindfulness remember to be thankful for all that you have. It will make you aware of what is making you happy or grateful within that present moment, and will enforce the fact that you do have a good life.