Seven mental health tips from student charity, Conscious Edinburgh

We sat down with mental health charity, Conscious Edinburgh, who told us their top seven mental health tips for students this winter.

Conscious was founded by Edinburgh University students, Anusan Wijayendran and Shanna Su in 2016, after their friend Rahoul Biswas-Hawkes tragically and unexpectedly took his own life. Since then, Conscious has continued to promote mental health awareness among the student community.

Next week, Conscious will hold its annual ‘Night with Conscious’, which raises money for mental health issues. The charity has advertised it as #betterthanaball, with all proceeds going towards a subsidised therapy scheme for students, aimed at making therapy more accessible and inclusive for students.

Ahead of the night, the charity committee collaborated to compile a list of their top seven mental health tips to help Edinburgh students tackle the rest of the semester. The stresses of university life can be overwhelming, so try these tips to relax and improve your mental wellbeing.

1. Brighten your mornings with a sunrise alarm clock

If you’re not a fan of being jolted awake in the morning by the tune of ‘marimba’ or ‘by the seaside,’ and would rather wake up peacefully, a sunrise alarm clock is your best friend. The gradually increasing light of these alarm clocks is a more relaxing alternative.

2. Do some yoga

This isn’t just about perfecting the downward dog. The regulated breathing and precise movements of yoga can be a great antidote for the stress of university life. Don’t worry, you don’t have to sign up for a class, there are hundreds of YouTube videos for all abilities. So get comfy and let’s get stretching. And breathe.

3. Try cold swimming

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Sure, Edinburgh is already feeling chillier, but if you’re brave enough, a full-body submersion in cold water causes a dopamine rush for your whole body. It’s basically a reset button for your stress levels. If you’d rather face Edinburgh’s cold seas with some friends, check out the Blue Tits Society and join their weekly swims.

4. Try out a new sport

The universities in Edinburgh offer a range of sports teams that any students can join. Aside from the known endorphin rush we get from exercise, it’s a perfect way to connect with people. Many societies run socials too, so the fun can continue off the pitch.

5. Touch some grass – literally

Edinburgh is one giant, scenic playground, with many parks and lots of greenery. When you’re stressed, plugging in your headphones and taking a walk around the meadows can help you re-connect with nature and de-stress (no wetsuit required this time).

6. Get some canine company

Why not meet some of Edinburgh’s cutest residents? Go to puppy yoga, or stop to meet some dogs on your walk. If you’re looking to make extra money, consider working as a dog-walker. Petting animals is a known mood booster, and for any cat lovers, we recommend you head to Maison de Moggy, Edinburgh’s own cat café.

7. Buy yourself flowers

Be your own biggest fan. So much of being mentally healthy is being kind to yourself. Channel your inner Miley and buy yourself flowers.

Make sure to follow Conscious on Instagram @consciousedinburgh. If you’re struggling with your mental health, please follow these resources from Conscious.