We talk a lot about mental and physical health. What about spiritual health?
Today we’re turning our attention to looking after your soul.
Look in
Student life can be very busy, with studying, socialising and part-time work. It can be easy to ‘just get on with it’ and not take time to reflect on what’s happening in your life – the good, the bad and the ugly.
Make sure you take time to take stock. Don’t let life just happen to you.
Take some time out to just think. Some people find journalling helps – either with free text, lists, mind maps or drawing.
Here are some pointers to get you thinking:
- Where am I growing at the moment?
- What is ‘giving’ to me and what is ‘taking’ from me?
- Are the decisions I’m making now ones I’ll be happy with in one, two- or five-years’ time?
Or you can reflect with apps – there are some good ones available.
Look out
Being linked to a community is good for the soul.
A recent survey in the UK found that people who are part of teams, hobby clubs, community or religious groups are 24% more likely to report feeling happy.
UWE has loads of student societies for a broad range of interests and if there’s not one that you like the look of, grab some like-minded students and set one up!
Volunteering is also good for the soul.
A national charity reported that 92% of volunteers agreed that volunteering had helped their mental health.
Giving out gives back to you!
Why not check out the range of volunteering opportunities we can connect you with?
Look up
Nature
Being in green spaces reduces stress, anxiety and depression by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone). Being in nature can help us to put our problems in perspective, without us even realising that’s what’s happening!
Being in nature can also foster a sense of mindfulness, grounding us in the present moment – not rushing ahead – and encouraging reflection.
Not only that – nature can inspire a sense of awe, connection and peace. We feel things we don’t feel when we’re indoors or on our phones.
Faith, religion and spirituality
Regardless of your belief, our campus Chaplaincy team are here for you; whether you have an established faith or want to explore faith and spirituality.
This is what student Bip said about Chaplaincy:
“Chaplaincy has been a great space for me to get out my thoughts ranging from religious struggle to bereavement. It’s a space that allows you to organise your thoughts, problems and whatever you may be dealing with and having someone like the Chaplain listen and provide a fresh perspective on things can go a long way. I recommend it to anyone, whether you’re religious, atheistic or anything in between.”
Research across psychology, sociology and health sciences has found that being religious or engaging in spirituality can be beneficial in a range of ways.
- Prayer, meditation and rituals provide calm, structure, and coping mechanisms.
- Religious faith often increases endurance and helps people cope with illness and grief.
- Belief in a higher person or purpose can bring hope, comfort and a sense of meaning.
Look after yourself
We want you to flourish at uni – to be healthy and happy and grow during your time here.
Make sure you’re making time for yourself in every way possible and reach out if you need a little extra support!