Whether you’re going back home for the holiday, travelling elsewhere, or staying on campus, anybody can experience the vulnerabilities that come with the winter season.
It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! As the festivities commence and the end of term approaches, we understand that for some of you, this time of year can bring on a mix of emotions. Whether you’re going back home for the holiday, travelling elsewhere, or staying on campus, anybody can experience the vulnerabilities that come with the winter season.
Before you leave for a well-deserved break, it is important to remember that not everyone’s holiday will look the same this year for a range of reasons. We’ve got you covered with wellbeing support resources, ideas for fun local winter activities, as well as self-care tips to enjoy a restful break!
Together Through Winter: Wellbeing Support to Beat Isolation
No matter where you are this winter, we want to remind you that you are not alone, and support is always nearby if you need it. Firstly, online services like the Samaritans offer year-round mental health support and can be contacted by calling 116 123 or emailed at jo@samaritans.org. Alternatively, the Student Space can offer one-to-one support for whatever challenge you’re facing. They offer a free and confidential service via email, text message or even webchat, specifically designed for students.
For those of you staying on campus during the holiday, we recognise that this can feel isolating, particularly for international students who are unable to go home and see family. Although many on-campus services and facilities close for the holiday, Christmas vacation opening hours are available on the Student Intranet, so you can find out where to find a cosy spot for a festive pick-me-up.
In addition, you can reach out to others in the same situation nearby - keep an eye on the Student Intranet for information from the Student Life team about social arrangements organised for students staying on campus.
If you are feeling alone during the holiday, consider using this time to check out local volunteering opportunities and make a positive impact on the community. This is a valuable experience, as well as an excellent way to meet people. You can find opportunities on Trussel or RHUL’s volunteering website.
Cosy Up: Self-Care Ideas to Savour the Winter Holiday
Taking care of your mental and physical wellbeing is always crucial, especially as the temperature drops. Cozy indoor activities are a winter essential. Try baking that recipe you never had time to make, watching a film, reading, or starting an entirely new hobby! Perhaps invest in a hot water bottle to feel extra warm whilst indoors.
Exercise is also a great form of self-care: the RHUL Sports Centre is open except between December 22nd to January 2nd. Out-of-term timing details can be found on the Student Intranet. Consider yoga, jogging or even simply walking outdoors as other forms of staying active. Despite the cold, spending some time outdoors everyday can promote mental health and positive habits – although make sure to wrap up warm!
With upcoming exams and coursework after the holiday, it is easy to feel consumed by studying. Self-care and a healthy balance are key to navigating the approaching exam season. You may find it is more productive to take regular breaks and allow yourself time for fun activities! Other activities to support your mental health may include journaling, reading, mindfulness and breathing exercises, taking a warm bath, or listening to music!
Winter Wonders: Fun Local Adventures to Embrace the Season
Considering there is some time where most on-campus facilities will be closed during the holiday, remember there is still plenty to do outside of the university! Thanks to excellent transport links, you can spend a day exploring an area you’ve perhaps never been to before, which is closer than you realised. Whether you’re staying on campus or nearby around London, we’ve got you covered with this list of fun and festive activities for the next few weeks:
-
Windsor Great Park Illuminated: Explore a walking tour around Windsor Great Park, full of festive light shows, music and decorations - on every night until 4 January.
-
Winter Wonderland: A huge Christmas fair in Hyde Park, London. Plenty of amusement rides, food outlets, ice skating, and shows. Open until 4 January.
-
Christmas at Kew: A beautiful outdoor light show located in Kew Gardens, a botanical garden in London. Open until 5 January.
-
Perhaps use this holiday to watch a thrilling West End theatre show in London! Here’s a guide to finding discounted tickets
-
Explore London’s Christmas markets including Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and King’s Cross. Treat yourself by exploring the food and gift outlets with fun and festive decorations.
-
Try ice skating this winter season: Windsor on Ice at Alexandra Gardens offers a festive rink, alternatively, Glide at Battersea Power Station, along with great views of London and the Thames!
-
Consider taking a day trip to another nearby city not too far from Egham – Brighton, Oxford or the Cotswolds? Check out train links and plan a spontaneous quick getaway!
-
Walking around London to spot Christmas lights – A free and heart-warming activity to do with friends or solo!
We wish you a happy holiday and that you come back rested and re-energised for the new year!