Kim Pham
24 May 2017: The University of Canberra helped students de-stress hosting activities where they could visit a petting zoo, pat puppies, practice origami and more.
The University’s Stress Less Week, held last week, is aimed at helping students take a break from the rigors of studying for exams in fun and interactive ways.
In addition to free hot drinks and toasted sandwiches, students got up close and personal with rabbits, chickens and ducks when Noah’s Ark Farm Friends Petting Zoo came to visit. They also got to pat some playful therapy dogs.
The exam period can be a challenging time for students, but University of Canberra wellbeing expert Dr Thomas Nielsen said there were some positive strategies students could put into place to cope during this time. These include self-coping mechanisms like ensuring students are getting enough rest, eating well and moving their body.
“Moderate intensity exercise is especially beneficial as it increases heart rate and blood flow to the brain, which can be a great boost before a study session or an exam,” Dr Nielsen said.
Food science and nutrition expert Nenad Naumovski recommended eating healthy foods like fresh fruit, vegetables and lean sources of protein and steering clear of highly processed, take-away and convenience foods.
“It’s important to have a healthy diet at the best of times but especially during periods of stress,” Dr Naumovski said.
“While it’s tempting for time-poor students to rely on convenience foods, they would benefit from eating more fresh fruit and vegetables. These foods are nutrient rich and contain antioxidants and other bioactives that can support the functioning of the brain and body overall,” he said.
Sports psychologist Dr Richard Keegan acknowledged that studying for exams could sometimes feel overwhelming. However, he said it is good for students to set aside time to create a timetable as part of their exam preparation.
“Planning is key so write down your goals, organise a schedule which includes breaks to eat and exercise, and map out your progress. This will help keep you on track and give you the confidence you need going into exams, knowing you have prepared the best you can,” he said.
Other events held as part of Stress Less Week included craft activities like colouring in, origami, a sports competition with an obstacle course and novelty games of giant Jenga and chess.
Stress Less Week is coordinated by the University’s Student Engagement Directorate in collaboration with UCU, UniLodge and the Medical & Counselling Centre.
Exams run for two weeks and finish on Saturday, 27 May.
Click here for more photos from Stress Less Week.