Physical
Health
Rule number one is making sure you're prepared if you come down with an illness or have some teething problems whilst at University. So before you do anything:
REGISTER AT THE
DOCTORS
If you’ve moved away from home and are now a proud resident of mighty Leeds, you’ll need to register with a local doctor. There are plenty of surgeries that you can register at, find your nearest one by checking the NHS website or Student Medical Practice located just down the road from the Blenheim Walk campus.
SEARCH FOR A
DENTIST
Dental problems can’t be dealt with by your doctor. If you need to register for a local dentist whilst you are in Leeds, you can search for your nearest one. Even if you don't think you need to register for a dentist in Leeds, it's always best to be clued up about where your nearest clinic is.
HEALTHY EATING
Healthy eating at Uni can be a struggle, especially when you're on a budget; but it's super important to make sure that when you leave the comfort of home cooking you continue to eat a balanced diet.
No single food can provide you with all the essential nutrients the body needs. Therefore, it is important that you eat a wide variety of foods which will provide you with adequate amounts of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals and dietary fibre, which are all important for your physical health and well-being.
It’s said that you are what you eat, so it’s no surprise that if your diet is good, then your mental health will benefit. A balanced and nutritious diet helps us feel good inside and out and has benefits including:
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Improved energy which means more stamina and better productivity
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Better sleep and improved focus
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General mood enhancement
A healthy, balanced diet is what we should all aim for, but remember that it’s also important to treat yourself to your favourite chocolate bar or whopping great bag of crisps every now and again. Whatever your go-to treat is, we all know this makes us feel great! Everything in moderation.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
Do not forget Leeds' best kept [not so secret] secret; the Market will have you gobsmacked at how cheap fresh, local food is. It is a must!
Breaking the fast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it kick start your metabolism but you'll have so much more energy for the entire day (trust us!)
Plan the week
Creating a weekly meal plan will help you factor in those healthy foods and save you loads of money. Planning what you need to buy will help food go further - less waste and more money saved!
Come dine with me
Sharing is caring and we couldn't agree more when it comes to food. Pick one night a week to cook together with your friends. Either take it in turns to cook or each bring a dish. Divide any left overs and don't forget to share the washing up too!
5 a day + water
Add a portion of fruit or veg into every meal. Bored of the same old 5 a day? Kirkgate market has a huge range to tickle your taste buds. Don't forget to drink plenty of water. Remember all that amazing fruit you bought at the market? Pop it in and give your H20 some flavor.
Meal prep
Remember that menu plan you did? Incorporate recipes and dishes that can be easily packed up for lunch the next day. Why not make a big pot of pasta or salad that you can box up for the rest of the week? You'll save so much money as well as eating healthier. Win win.
EXERCISE
EXERCISE
If you're holed up in the studio all day, then getting just half an hour of exercise can really do wonders for your health. Consider swapping the bus for a bike and cycle to Uni for a cheaper, fun and healthy commute; or join one of our weekly MOVE fitness classes. With MOVE, you can choose to attend one or both of our weekly classes in Yoga, Pilates, Boxercise, Zumba and more.
We’ve also got some great sports teams and clubs to get you busting a move. Our Netball and Football teams are always looking for new players and if team sports aren’t for you, there’s always Run Club. Getting involved in sports and fitness whilst at University is a great way to stay healthy, boost your mental health and make some great mates along the way!
Do something you enjoy
Revisit sports you loved when you were younger, ride a bike or play frisbee in the park. Get your friends involved and make it fun. Exercising should be enjoyable for you to want to do it!
Make it a team effort
Working out with someone else means you can incorporate your social life into an active lifestyle and makes you more likely to commit to the activity. Why not join one of our sports teams?
Reach for the apps
Struggle with that motivation? Us too. Apps can provide everything from quick 10 minute workouts to week long programmes! We like Nike Training Club, MyFitnessPal and Strava.
Stretch it out
Exercise doesn't have to always involve an ultimate sweat session!
Gentle yoga and simple stretches are still hugely beneficial. Even if you take it slow, stretching will help you feel relaxed and energised.
Pace yourself
Remember to set your personal pace when exercising regularly. It's important to listen to your body. Don't push yourself to injury and make sure you're having those all important rest days!
Mix it up
Keep both your brain and body engaged by mixing up the exercise you do. From going for a stroll to dancing your butt off, there's so much to choose from!