Self-Care Week takes place from Monday 17th until Friday 21st November 2025.
What is Self-Care and Why Does It Matter?
Self-care means taking intentional steps to protect and improve your physical and mental wellbeing. It’s about making choices that help you feel balanced, healthy, and resilient—not just when life feels easy, but especially during challenging times.
As we head into the winter months, the days get shorter, the weather turns colder, and deadlines start to pile up. Many students find this time of year stressful and overwhelming. It’s easy to put wellbeing on the back burner when assignments, exams, and social commitments demand your attention—but that’s exactly when self-care becomes most important.
Why is Self-Care Important for Students?
University life is full of opportunities, but it also brings pressures:
- Academic stress from coursework and looming deadlines
- Financial and social pressures that can affect mental health
- Seasonal changes that impact mood and energy levels
Ignoring these challenges can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even physical health issues. Practicing self-care helps you:
- Manage stress effectively
- Stay focused and productive
- Boost your mood and energy
- Build resilience for future challenges
Self-care isn’t about big changes—it’s about small, consistent actions that make a big difference. Things like getting enough sleep, eating well, moving your body, connecting with others, and knowing when to ask for help.
Why Self-Care Week?
National Self-Care Week (17th–21st November) is the perfect time to pause and reflect on your wellbeing. Our goal is to give you practical tools and ideas that fit your lifestyle, so you can feel confident and supported as you navigate the rest of the academic year.
What’s On During Self-Care Week?
Drop by our Self-Care Week pop-ups! Meet the Student Support and Wellbeing team for practical advice on restoring your wellbeing, including tips on the “7 types of rest” every student needs. Learn about the University’s free Nutritional Therapy Clinic, explore study tips with our friendly Library Services team, and pick up info about the university gym, our Physical Therapy Clinics, and upcoming wellbeing events. Whether you need fresh ideas for self-care, study support, or want to ask questions about local resources, we’re here to help—no appointment needed.
- Tuesday 18th November, 10am–12pm at City Campus
- Thursday 20th November, 10am–12pm at St John’s Campus
Take a gentle pause with one of our one-off, beginner-friendly yoga sessions, designed to help you unwind, stretch, and reconnect with your body. Over the course of an hour, you’ll be guided through simple movements and breathing techniques that you can easily repeat in your own time. No experience needed — just wear something comfy! No charge, but booking is essential (booking link to follow).
- Tuesday 18th November, 1pm–2pm at City Campus
- Thursday 20th November, 3pm–4pm at St John’s Campus
- Friday 21st November, 1pm–2pm at Severn Campus
Click here to book a yoga session now!
Join us for refreshing guided wellness walks and accompany our Student Wellbeing Champions with a choice of two routes, starting from either St John’s Campus or City Campus. These gentle, scenic walks offer the perfect opportunity to unwind, connect with nature, and recharge your mind and body. Enjoy a peaceful study break in good company, with friendly guides leading you through beautiful local routes. Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate outerwear, and a positive attitude are all you need!
Tuesday 18th November, 2.30pm start from City Campussadly cancelled due to flooding- Thursday 20th November, 2.30pm start from St John’s Campus
Join us for a special men-only birdwatching walk on International Men’s Day, designed to offer a relaxing way to connect with nature and support your mental wellbeing. This walk provides a welcoming space to enjoy the outdoors, spot local birds, and have open conversations about mental health with fellow students. After the walk, warm up with a coffee and a friendly chat in firstpoint’s Wellbeing Corner. This is your chance to take a break, share your experiences, and build connections in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
- Wednesday 19th November, 8.30am start, St John’s Campus
Take a mindful break and reconnect with nature, even when staying indoors! Join us for a special Self-Care Week edition of Craft & Cuppa Club, where the Campus Conservation Crew will guide you in making simple, eco-friendly pine cone bird feeders. Crafting is a great way to relax, and creating something that supports local wildlife adds an extra layer of wellbeing. Take your feeder home or hang it around campus to bring a little nature into your day.
- Wednesday 19th November, 1pm – 2pm, The Hangar, St John’s Campus