As your Students' Union President, I'm reaching out to talk about something I and colleagues in the SU care about and value great a amount, mental health awareness. This week, we've been diving into Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme is all about movement—because moving more can boost and aid our mental health.
As your Students' Union President, I'm reaching out to talk about something I and colleagues in the SU care about and value great a amount, mental health awareness. This week, we've been diving into Mental Health Awareness Week, and the theme is all about movement—because moving more can boost and aid our mental health.
In a world where stress, pressure, and just the everyday grind can really get to us, taking care of our mental well-being is crucial. Mental health isn't just about avoiding problems; it's about feeling good emotionally, mentally, and socially. And one way I personally love to do that is by getting my body and mind moving.
As well as being a huge science euthenist, I’m also a personal trainer and Rugby player. Through these roles and hobbies, I’ve really come to bring the science to life and experience that exercise has a powerful impact on our mental health. It reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and boosts mood by releasing those great things known as, endorphins. Plus, it enhances sleep quality, builds confidence, and fosters a sense of accomplishment—all vital components of a healthy mind.
But when we talk about movement, we're not just talking about hitting the gym (although that's cool too if that's your thing). Movement means anything that gets us up and active, whether it's taking a stroll outside, dancing to our favourite songs, finding zen through yoga, or getting competitive in games with friends.
As students, we spend a lot of time glued to screens and buried in books, which can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. But the good news is, we have the power to change that. We can adopt movement into our daily routines no matter how big or small, even when it feels like we're crazy busy.
Here are some ways I recommended to get moving:
- As a student at Cardiff Met you can get a Free Met Active gym membership to use across both Llandaff and Cyncoed campuses. The membership includes fitness classes for all abilities, free Personal training on Fridays and use of the swimming pool too!
- Since graduating I have ventured into solo travelling around Cardiff and have started to really enjoy walking around some of the local destinations, I recommend Roath Lake, Bute Park and Cardiff Bay for walks, picnics, runs and sight-seeing.
- Joining a SU Sports team or Society. Students’ groups always come up with great ways to get active and run cool events! I have been a part of the women’s Rugby team at Met since 2019 and have enjoyed every minute. It created a healthy balance for me when stressed with my academic work and gave endless opportunities to meet new friends.
As well as getting involved in new things, let's remind each other to take breaks and get some fresh air. Let's organise fun activities that get us moving and bonding as a community, and let's create a culture were talking about mental health is totally normal and supported.
If you or someone you know may be seeking help or advice for their mental health the University have a range of Student services to help students with any issues they may be experiencing. The Students’ Union also have an independent Support and Advice service, helping Students wherever we can to guide and give appropriate advice in times of need. Help and counselling can also be supported by Bigmoose our SU charity partner, based in the heart of Cardiff. Helping to support not only students but staff, family, and Friends too!
This journey isn't one we have to tackle alone. It's something we do together, lifting each other up along the way.