1. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner:

I have used many excuses for not cooking proper food, from ‘I’m tired’ to ‘I don’t have time’ and especially ‘I can’t afford it’. I know I am not the only one. But what we need to realise is that our diet and food intake can have a huge impact on our mood, concentration and physical activity. And yes, I know that as students it’s not always easy to prepare the most complicated meals, but it doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to doing that at least once a month. If you are not much of a cook, order food from your favourite restaurant and enjoy it.

2. Grab coffee with a friend:

As deadlines creep up, it gets harder and harder to socialise, especially if you don’t live with or do the same course as your friends. Make sure you keep up to date with their lives and frequently ask them how they are doing. It’s always good to catch up as it allows you both to have a break and focus on something else apart from uni or work. There are plenty of coffee shops in Leicester so you can make it a habit of every week or month trying out a new place.

3. Practise a sport:

It has been scientifically proved that working out relieves stress. It’s a great way to not only keep your health in check but also to hang out with friends, take a break and push your limits. DMU Active provides a recreational sports and fitness programme that offers self-defence, Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes as well as sports such as badminton, netball, lacrosse, dodgeball, swimming, basketball, table tennis, volleyball, etc.

4. Treat yourself to something you love:

Whether it is new jeans or a video game, make sure you don’t forget to save some money every month to take care of yourself. Don’t just go wasting money on anything random. It’s better to spend that pocket money on something that would make you happy or help you in an area that you are struggling. I always find it helpful to make a list of priorities within the list of things I want. I subscribe to a beauty box every month and it always makes me super happy when I receive it.

5. Go to a gig:

I know what you are thinking, gigs are expensive. Yes, that’s true but you don’t need to go see Ariana Grande every month. Leicester has loads of local places where smaller, yet amazing artists perform, such as The Cookie or The Shed. They are just as good as any bigger artist. If you love music, then I seriously recommend this. It’s a good way to socialise with friends and broaden your music taste. You never know who you will end up meeting at these gigs. It might even bring you closer to the local community.