University is one of the most exciting times of your life, but it can also be overwhelming. Between lectures, exams, part-time jobs and trying to maintain a social life, it’s easy to forget to look after yourself. That’s why, here at Escape Campus, we believe every Lancaster student deserves a little time to relax and recharge.
Lancaster has plenty of great ways to unwind, and whether you’re new to the city or preparing for your final year, here are a few ideas to help you make the most of International Self Care Day.
Have a Slow Start to the Day
Making the most of Self Care Day doesn’t have to involve expensive plans. Sometimes the simplest things are the most effective.
Give yourself permission to slow down. Have a lie-in, enjoy your favourite breakfast and drink, and take your time instead of rushing straight out of the door.
One of the biggest benefits of living in your own Lancaster student accommodation is having a space that’s completely yours. Put on your favourite TV show, have a bath, light a candle, or listen to a playlist while you enjoy a slow, relaxing morning before heading out.
Take a Walk
Lancaster may be a small city, but it’s home to some beautiful green spaces, including the ever-popular Williamson Park. Famous for the iconic Ashton Memorial, it’s only a short walk from much of the Lancaster student accommodation in the city centre.
With woodland walks, open green spaces and stunning views across the city, it’s the perfect place to clear your head and unwind.
Spending time outdoors has been shown to help reduce stress and improve your mood, making it one of the easiest and most affordable self-care activities for students. Grab a coffee, put on your favourite playlist, bring a book, and enjoy some fresh air.
Treat Yourself
Self-care looks different for everyone. For some Lancaster students, it might mean buying something you’ve had your eye on. For others, it could be enjoying a nice meal, visiting your favourite café, or simply spending a quiet day relaxing in your Lancaster student home.
Lancaster is full of fantastic independent cafés and restaurants, so why not treat yourself to your favourite drink and a sweet treat? Taking a short break from lectures or revision can help you recharge and return to your work feeling more focused.
Cook Yourself a Comforting Meal
Student life often means quick meals between lectures, takeaways, or whatever happens to be in the cupboard. International Self Care Day is the perfect excuse to slow down and cook yourself something you really enjoy.
Why not invite your housemates to join you? Cooking together is a great way to spend time with the people you live with while enjoying a proper home-cooked meal. Whether you’re trying a new recipe or making a family favourite, it’s an easy way to switch off for a while.
It doesn’t have to be expensive either. With supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl just a short distance from much of our Lancaster student accommodation, it’s easy to cook something tasty without stretching your student budget.
Find the Right Balance with Work
Balancing university work with looking after yourself isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most important things you can do for your mental and physical wellbeing.
Self-care doesn’t have to take up your whole day. It could be a walk around Williamson Park, catching up with friends over a coffee, or simply spending an evening watching films from the comfort of your Lancaster student home.
Taking time to recharge can improve your mood, reduce stress and even help you stay more productive with your university work. Whatever self-care looks like for you, we hope you take the opportunity to slow down, switch off and enjoy a well-earned break.