10 Simple Ways to De-Stress & Chill in Birmingham
As fun and fulfilling as student life can be, it can also be quite overwhelming. Whether it’s coursework deadlines, exam anxiety or juggling workloads, university can often feel a little stressful. That’s why it’s important to take some regular time out from your studies to focus on your wellbeing. Something as simple as a walk in the fresh air or immersing yourself in culture can give you a much-needed reset. Let’s take a look at our favourite ways to de-stress and chill in Birmingham
1. Take a stroll through Cannon Hill Park
Just south of the city centre lies Cannon Hill Park. This sprawling estate is just a short bus ride from your true student Birmingham accommodation (jump on the 35, 45 or 47). With beautiful gardens, woodlands and lakes to admire, it’s an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. Check out Birmingham City Council’s website for a 5km walking route around the park and through the surrounding riverside.
2. Find a free art exhibition
Sometimes, immersing yourself in something beautiful or thought-provoking is all you need to recharge or find inspiration. Birmingham offers a vibrant arts scene, with many galleries free to enter. Check out the Royal Birmingham Society of Arts (RBSA) Gallery, the contemporary Ikon Gallery and the university’s Parkside Gallery, which hosts an ever-changing programme of free exhibitions and events throughout the year.
3. Declutter your student bedroom
Feeling overwhelmed? A quick declutter can improve your mental health. Studies have shown that messy living spaces can make us feel stressed and anxious, whereas a clean and tidy bedroom promotes relaxation and productivity, and can even improve sleep quality. Spend 15 minutes biweekly on a specific area of your room - sorting items into keep, donate and throw away categories. Use smart storage solutions such as under-bed boxes for seasonal clothes and desk tidies to keep cables and stationery under control.
4. Try a meditation or breathwork class
You may think that meditation and breathwork isn’t for you, but we say, don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! These techniques can help clear the mind, relieve stress and promote relaxation. There are plenty of free and low-cost classes throughout Birmingham, for example, Kadampa Meditation Centre runs lunchtime meditation sessions for just £4. Look out for the wellbeing events held in your true Birmingham accommodation too.
5. Wander around the Botanical Gardens
Harness the calming power of nature with a trip to the Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre Grade II listed landscape. Take in the exotic plants in the Victorian Glasshouses, admire the carefully recreated natural habitats and feel wonderfully small against the towering trees in the pinetum.
6. Get some quiet in the Library of Birmingham
The Library of Birmingham is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Delve into some of their fascinating tomes - it’s home to one of the world’s most significant Shakespeare collections, a newspaper archive and an extensive music collection. On a clear day, head to the beautiful rooftop garden and admire the views over the city.
7. Have a phone-free day
Whether it’s wasting hours mindlessly scrolling, negative thoughts about what we see on social media or feeling under attack from a barrage of messages, there’s no denying our phones can make us feel bad. A digital detox will lower your cortisol levels, help you connect with your surroundings and reward you with a better night’s sleep to boot.
8. Plan a home spa day
Most student budgets don’t stretch to a day at the spa, but you can create a relaxing spa experience in your true Birmingham student accommodation. Head to the bargain shops to grab the essentials: face and hair masks, body scrubs, a manicure set and some healthy snacks. Assemble your besties (or take some alone time), sling on an ambient playlist, and your pjs, and enjoy your pamper day!
9. Immerse yourself in Digbeth’s Street Art
Digbeth has a vibrant art scene, which is particularly famous for its street art. The former industrial area is now home to a dazzling array of graffiti from some of the world’s most celebrated street artists. This three-mile walk allows you to take in all of the colourful and inspiring works.
10. Explore the canals
Water has a way of making us feel calm and connected. Thanks to its industrial past, Birmingham has around 100 miles of canals to explore. Take your time strolling down the paths, admire the colourful narrowboats and stop for a coffee or pint along the way.
10. Check out true Birmingham student accommodation today
While student life can be stressful, Birmingham offers plenty of ways to relax and enjoy life. At true Birmingham, we offer luxury en-suite rooms with excellent facilities, dedicated mental health and wellbeing support and a year-round programme of socials to ensure you get the most out of your time here.
We’re also offering £500 off your rent when you book at true Birmingham. Reserve your room or arrange a viewing today: true Student Birmingham