Student wellness

As the old saying goes, "healthy body, healthy mind". 

It is important to keep active, especially during tough or stressful times. Gyms and outside areas are now back open, and many trainers and gyms are also offering online classes and programs. There are also loads of YouTube training videos, but if you are new to any exercises it is best to have someone watch you to make sure you won't get hurt. Contact your local gym/trainer/yoga instructor, or just search online and see what you can find.

Not sure where to get started?

Explore the Bond University Sports Centre.

Click here for a 28 day exercise plan you can do from home with no equipment, just your own bodyweight, from Myfitnesspal.

Check out these quick and easy exercises and routines you can do at home from Queensland Government's Healthier.Happier website:

• Balance and stability
• No running cardio
• No sweat lunch break
• Quick core
• Total body toning

Physical health is about keeping your body healthy, but don't forget that your body is made up of more than just your muscles and cardiovascular system.

Remember to also:

• give your eyes plenty of breaks from looking at light and screens
• stand up and give your legs a stretch. Sitting for hours at a time can cause many pains, aches and long term health problems
• give your hands and wrists a break from using a keyboard and mouse

A good way to take care of all 3 of the above points is to get up once an hour when studying and go for a quick 5 or 10 minute walk. This will also give your mind a few minutes to relax and regroup. If you can't leave your home, try walking around your backyard, or even just inside if there are no other options. Stairs are great if available.

Not only is exercise great for your physical health, but according to the Queensland Government's Benefits of being active webpage, exercise can also help:

• improve concentration and learning
• increase personal confidence and self-awareness
• reduce feelings of depression and anxiety
• encourage social interaction
• enhance self-esteem
• improve quality of life

It can be hard to maintain nutrition and healthy eating habits during assessment and exam time, but a healthy diet can improve your energy levels, concentration, memory and mood.

• Australian Guide to Healthy Eating
  Poster resource on nutrition guidelines form the Australian Government

Good sleep can improve mental performance, lead to less anxiety and improved mood and energy levels. Sleep is also when your body best repairs and recovers, so don't forget to tuck yourself in and get a good night's sleep as often as you can. 

And please remember that when the Library goes 24/7, that doesn't mean you need to!