by Alannah Mylechreest, Community Subeditor
As deadlines loom ever closer this month, it's inevitable that stress levels have been rising at the same time. With that in mind, here are some helpful tips, tricks, and Bristol-themed recommendations for making it through until the winter break.
Shake up your study space
We all have our favourite study spaces, but sometimes it can get dull sitting in the same spot day in, day out. This in turn may impede your concentration. A change of location can do wonders for your productivity levels, and thankfully, Bristol isn’t short of spaces for last-minute cramming. An underrated space on campus is the Hawthorns; Bristol veterans may remember it as once being student accommodation many years ago, but it's now been transformed into a cosy study space perfect for both group and solo work. For those wanting to escape campus, Bristol Central Library is worth a visit - a historic library owned by Bristol City Council, with stunning views to distract you from your essay. Finally, don’t forget that you’re not limited to your subject’s library, so why not visit another department’s study space, such as the Physics Library, Queen’s Building, or Grace Reeves to name a few!
Eat well
Tempting as it may be to tuck into yet another Uber Eats delivery or Sainsbury’s meal deal, your brain needs nutritious fuel in order to keep pushing through deadlines. The best way to get this is with a home cooked meal packed with natural ingredients. If you’re needing to stock up on fruit and veg, there are plenty of independent greengrocers where you can pick up supplies; a couple recommendations are Reg The Veg in Clifton Village and Full Basket near the Arches on Cheltenham road. If studying has you knackered and you simply cannot cook, Eat a Pitta is the perfect healthy alternative to fast food, serving a range of tasty food, most combining houmous and falafel. With locations spread across Bristol, you’re likely not too far from one.
Make plans with friends
It’s important to remember that life isn’t just about uni work, and whilst it may sometimes feel impossible to find the right balance between socialising and studying, it’s important to prioritise spending time with friends to stop you from going completely mad. This can be as simple as catching up for coffee or food in between seminars - easily done as there are plenty of options within walking distance of campus! Two excellent options are Mocha Mocha on St Michael’s Hill if you’re hoping to warm up with a hot drink, and Little Bagel Co. on Queens Road for a wide range of lunchtime options. Whilst a night out may seem a tempting distraction right now, having a chill evening at home with flatmates can be just as (if not more so) beneficial for helping you cope with exam stress. If Netflix isn’t quite cutting it with the film offerings, head over to 20th Century Flicks on Christmas Steps, which hosts a wide collection of DVDs available to rent. Having a browse and picking up either a niche new favourite or a classic comfort film to watch is the perfect remedy to the horrors of the essay you’re currently slaving over.
Get some fresh air
It’s no secret that getting some exercise whilst surrounded by nature is good for both your physical and mental wellbeing. Any pain caused by being hunched over notes flashcards or staring at a computer screen for hours can be soothed by one of the many walks found in Bristol and its surrounding areas. On the south side of the river is Ashton Court Estate, boasting the beautiful grounds of a manor house (and an excellent cafe too!). For those looking for a bit more nature, Snuff Mills is an excellent walk along the River Frome. And if a bit of animal therapy would help take your mind off of essay stress, then Goats in the Gully is highly recommended, and does exactly what it says on the tin - goats in the gully found on the edge of the Downs!
Orla Ruane
Of course, the most important tip is to reach out if you’re struggling, whether that’s to your tutors, the wellbeing service, family, or friends. Before you know it, deadline season will once again be a distant memory, and you’ll be celebrating your freedom from essays and exams!
Featured image: Sophie Stradling
