Relaxation and revision: finding a balance
Written by Issy Gosse, third year Psychology student
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As lectures wind down and university starts to become quieter as we approach the Christmas break, it can be easy to fall into ‘complete relaxation’ mode and forget all about your studies, or go into ‘panic mode’ over revision and exams.
Both of these feelings are okay, however it’s important to find a balance between the two so that you feel prepared coming back to university in the New Year. I know I’ve felt both of these feelings before, so here are my top tips for relaxing and revising over the Christmas break.
Relaxation: Spend time with family and friends
After completing your first term at university you’re due a well-deserved a break! The Christmas break is a great time to get together with family and friends, so try and use it to destress and have a laugh with those closest to you.
If you’re staying locally and not travelling home for the break, rest assured there are plenty of others just like you. Goldsmiths has organised an event where you can meet and make plans together – register online.
Revision: Create a revision timetable
A revision timetable can be a great way to visualise how you can spend some of your Christmas break revising or doing university work, so that you don’t feel overwhelmed when you return to university. When creating the timetable, be realistic with your time and give yourself breaks and days off to ensure that you don’t overwork yourself. Which? University has a great page on revision timetables, with app recommendations and study tips.
Relaxation: Take a wintery walk
Taking a walk isn’t only good for your body, but also for your wellbeing – the NHS recommends it as a great way to stay motivated, along with loads of other benefits. Some of my favourite places to walk in London are Greenwich Park, Peckham Rye Park and Primrose Hill. But remember to wrap up warm!
Revision: Find a place where you work best
Whether you’re at home or at your term-time address, finding somewhere that suits your way of working is essential to productivity. Be it your room, the Library, or a coffee shop, try and find a spot where there will be as few interruptions as possible so that you can stay on top of your workload.
Relaxation: Read books and watch films
Take some time out to watch your favourite films and read for fun. Not everything you do has to revolve around your studies, so watch something you perhaps wouldn’t normally watch, or read that book you’ve been desperate to read! If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out the Guardian’s best books of 2019 and Wired’s best films to watch on Netflix.
Christmas at Goldsmiths
There are a range of events and actvities you can get involved with during the last week of term and over the Christmas break, offering a fun way to relax and meet new people – make sure you check them out.
Help and support
Help and support is there if you want or need it. If you’re feeling stressed, worried or low, it can really help to talk to someone.
Goldsmiths Campus Support Officers (CSOs) offer out-of-hours support for all students and will be running a service over the Christmas break. You can contact them by email: campus-support@gold.ac.uk, or by calling 020 7919 7284.