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My Queen's Student Round Up November

Fuel, Focus and Flow: Staying on Track at Uni

Uni life can be exciting, busy - and a little unpredictable. Between classes, part-time jobs and social plans, it’s easy to end up running on caffeine and willpower. But how you live day to day has a big impact on how well you learn, focus and feel.

You’ve probably heard most of this before — eat well, sleep more, move often — but simple doesn’t always mean easy. Building healthy habits isn’t about being perfect; it’s about small, consistent choices that help you feel your best. 

1. Feed Your Brain

Food is your fuel. Energy drinks might seem like a quick fix, but regular use has been linked with anxiety, low mood and poor concentration. If you find yourself struggling to sleep or focus, that extra can might not be helping. 

Your brain loves healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, oily fish, avocado) and hydration — even mild dehydration can affect mood and memory. Eat regularly to keep energy stable and avoid the “hangry” crash. 

A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, beans and probiotics supports gut health, which research shows is closely linked to mental wellbeing. 

Quick tip: Try swapping one energy drink a week for water or herbal tea and see if your focus changes.

2. Move Your Body

Exercise is one of the best stress-busters going. The UK guideline is 150 minutes a week, but that could mean walking briskly, cycling, dancing, or just taking the long route to class. 

Movement helps relieve stress, improves sleep and sharpens focus. Even quick breaks — stretching between study sessions or a walk after class — can reset your energy. 

3. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep is when your brain files away information and recharges. Missing it can tank memory and mood faster than you think. 

    • Stick to a regular routine 
    • Avoid screens before bed 
    • Skip caffeine or alcohol in the evening 
    • If you can’t sleep, get up and do something calming, then try again

Remember: It’s rest, not laziness.

Quick Poll: How Are You Sleeping?

4. Take Real Rest

 

Figure 1: Nuavo, Avalon. Seven Types of Rest. IDEAS.TED.COM, 2021.

There are seven types of rest — physical, mental, sensory, creative, emotional, social and spiritual. Real rest gives your brain a break from stimulation. 

Scrolling social media doesn’t count — it keeps your mind busy. Instead, listen to music, doodle, go for a walk or sit somewhere green.

5. Stay Connected

Connection boosts motivation and mood. Even short chats with classmates or friends make a difference. Loneliness can drain your focus and confidence, so try to balance work with people and activities that bring you joy. 

You don’t need to change everything overnight. Start small, stay consistent, and notice what helps you feel more balanced. 

You can pop by the Student Wellbeing and Accessible Learning drop-in if you need help with implementing changes. No appointment, no pressure — just a friendly space to talk, reflect and find strategies that work for you. 

Resources and Further Information 

By Amy Jackson
Student Wellbeing Service
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