IT'S cold, dark, and gloomy. You have more university assignments and exams than you’d care to think about and not enough time to do them. You might have dissertation deadlines ahead of you, a long stretch of less-than-thrilling lectures, or the struggle of sticking to that New Year’s Resolution that seemed such a good idea when you were cosy and well-fed. And, in January and February, there isn’t even the light of Diwali, Hanukkah or Christmas to keep you going. This is the depth of student winter and, if you’re studying in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s hard to be happy about it.
But not impossible. Even if you, like me, have permanent goosebumps and constantly dream of summer, there are still ways to perk yourself up when university gets depressing. No, they won’t make your essays go away, and they probably won’t stop your housemates from turning down the thermostat to save money - but they may make all of that student stuff a bit easier to deal with. It’s time to stop wallowing and face the winter with some plucky positivity; or, failing that, some grim determination.
Hibernate (sort of)
Sadly, humans can’t actually hibernate, but you can do the next best thing – arrange a film night for you and your friends. Rent some DVDs or decide on a Netflix series (here are some good ones), gather up every blanket and pillow in sight, get some snacks and popcorn, and enjoy. Its way cosier than a night out and will take your mind off things.
Listen to your Nan
Your grandparents may not be right about everything, but if they’ve lived in an era without central heating, they know what they’re talking about. Stews, hotpots, blankets, thermals, hot water bottles, winter hats – whatever kept them warm, try it out. They’ve probably lived through worst winters than you and, though not particularly ‘cool’, there are ways to dress warmly as a student without looking idiotic. Uniqlo is one of the best brands for this, with modern styles, affordable cashmere and a whole range of Heat Tech clothing that will make early mornings a far less bone-chilling prospect.
Make plans
If there’s something you’re thinking of doing later this year, like taking a trip, visiting a friend, studying abroad, going to a gig or festival, or perhaps graduation celebrations, then there’s no better time to plan it. For one thing, it will give you something to look forward to, and for another it will mean you don’t leave all the planning until the last minute (and risk not going at all). Add a countdown to your phone for added excitement.
Make the most of daylight hours
If you have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or simply find yourself feeling blue when the days are dark, then making the most of the natural daylight can be a big help. This does involve getting up earlier (boo) but even if you just sit in bed with a cup of tea while the sky brightens, it can make the day feel that much more cheerful. Alternatively you can invest in special alarm clocks or ‘dawn simulators’ to make things sunnier when you wake up.
Wake up better
Speaking of alarm clocks, changing how you wake up could make a huge difference to your mood. If you tend to set your alarm whenever is convenient, you might be abruptly waking yourself in the middle of the natural 90 minute sleep cycle, making you disorientated and groggy. In the age of apps, though there are some very easy ways to make sure this doesn’t happen. The app SleepyTime will work out the ideal time to go to sleep based on the time you need to wake up, and vice versa, so getting out of bed is a bit more bearable.
Appreciate the bleak
As much as I love summer, there is beauty in the winter landscape if you know where to find it. Skeletal trees, rolling mist, frosted grass, frozen ponds, glittery spider webs, and of course, snow, are all reasons to enjoy the cold (or try to enjoy it). If you’re not convinced, take a look at some amazing winter photography and artwork, or maybe try out out for yourself.
Try winter sports
Winter sports are excellent for warming you up, and if you live near a dry ski slope, ice skating rink or indoor snow centre, you don’t even need it to be snowing outside to take part. If your university has student societies for these kinds of activities, even better – they can often get you discounts on lessons and renting equipment.
Give generously
Everyone gets caught up in their own problems from time to time, but it’s particularly easy to do this during the self-improvement-fest that is the New Year. However, a considerable amount of research has shown that people who think about others and engage in acts of generosity are happier than those who do not. Volunteering, in particular, has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression, but there are numerous ways you can give back and feel good in the process. Has someone gone out of their way to help you recently? Thank them. Is a friend struggling with their work? Help them. The power of generosity is so strong that it can even improve your physical health. If you need ideas, check out Action for Happiness.
Get more tips on staying happy and healthy at university with our Top Tips to Keep You Smiling at University.
