6 easy ways for you to improve your body and mind, courtesy of Edinburgh University

Bill Urquhart

A survey by Mystudenthalls.com recently found Edinburgh University to be the second healthiest university in the country!

The study attributed points according to the cost and range of gym facilities, number of yoga and meditation societies, accessible mindfulness resources, and the number of societies available to support students who choose not to drink.

Here are 6 easy ways for you to improve your body and mind courtesy of Edinburgh University:

1. Download the free ‘Feeling Good’ app

The Feeling Good App Positive Mental Training is available as an IOS or Android App.

The app provides self-help for:

  • stress,
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • building confidence
  • coping
  • wellbeing

You can gain special access to the locked content on this app for free using the University login:

Username: uoesport

Password: positive

2. Make use of the free Active Lives novice courses

If you’re keen to get moving but don’t know where to start, the university runs a number of free courses for total novices. With help learning to run or just improve your running ability then why not look into Active Lives 

3. Visit the Chaplaincy for free mindfulness, yoga, and tai-chi

 

The Chaplaincy has implemented mindfulness programmes for students to improve academic attainment and results, address the deepening anxiety around the mental health of students, and increase mental resilience.

For more information, visit the Chaplaincy’s homepage

4. Join the Pleasance gym

 

Our university gym contains world-class facilities for cardiovascular exercise, circuits, fixed and free weights. There are also facilities for squash, climbing/bouldering, martial arts, and badminton. It also offers dozens of free bookable classes every week that are free for members.

For £3 pay as you go (if you’re feeling tentative) or just £96 for a full year’s membership, it really is one of the best value for money gyms in the country.

5. Sign up with The Big White Wall for free with the uni

Big White Wall is for anyone age 16 or over who needs support with their emotional wellbeing, for whatever reason.

Reasons may include:

  • Anxiety
  • Stress
  • Depression and feeling low
  • Relationship issues
  • Impact of life events

Sign up with your University email address to get free access for 6 months.

6. Go for a wander

Whether it’s around Holyrood park, or down by the Water of Leith, Edinburgh harbours some amazing strolls. Research has shown that using meditation alongside walking significantly reduces anxiety levels in university students.