As November rolls around, many university students feel their motivation begin to roll away with it. It seems that lecture halls are emptier, deadlines are impending and sleep starts to come at a premium. With reading week gone, there is now the impending stretch that students must push through to get to the end of the semester.
Research has linked approaching exam periods with increased test anxiety and poorer sleep quality, adding to the challenges of keeping up with coursework.
As students dive into the months of midterms that bleed quickly into the coming exam period, it is important to keep mental and physical health a priority.
Brock’s Wellness Week gives students the opportunity to de-stress without needing to plan events themselves.
Starting Nov. 2, Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) will put on a number of events throughout campus, hoping to provide students with fun and relaxing activities. ill put on a number of events throughout campus, hoping to provide students with fun and relaxing activities.
Students can spend time with furry friends during puppy social
For students looking for a break from studying, BUSU’s puppy social offers an opportunity to spend the afternoon with some four-legged visitors. Taking place on Nov. 3 from 2 to 4 p.m. in Kenmore Lounge, the event gives students something different to look forward to during the school week.
Be ready for a line because this is a popular event. BUSU recommends students dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes.
With assignments, readings and upcoming exams competing for students’ attention, the puppy social provides a change of pace from the usual campus routine. Students can take some time away from their screens and textbooks, enjoy the company of others, and participate in an activity that does not involve thinking about their next deadline.
This is a free drop-in event, requiring no ticket or pre-registration. Students will need to present their Brock card for entry and sign a waiver for participation.
Fitness classes offer students a chance to recharge
Wellness Week also encourages students to look after their physical health through fitness classes offered at the Walker Sports Complex. Students can participate in Dance Step on Nov. 2, Core & More on Nov. 3 or a spin class on Nov. 5, providing different options for those looking to incorporate movement into their busy schedules.
With students spending their days in the library or sitting down for hours, this brings an opportunity to get active. Events are free for Brock students, so whether students have fitness experience or not, they can step away from academic responsibilities and focus on their physical well-being.
Get creative with pottery painting
Students looking for a quieter activity can put their creativity to work during BUSU’s pottery painting event on Nov. 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. in Residence 8.
The event gives students a chance to create something outside of their usual academic work. Instead of focusing on essays, presentations or exam preparation, participants can take a break and try a hands-on activity in a more relaxed setting.
For students who find themselves spending most of their days moving between classes, studying and completing assignments, creative activities can offer a different way to spend time with friends and connect with other members of the Brock community.
Build a mini LEGO figure and take a break from studying
On Nov. 4, students can also visit Isaac’s Lounge on the third floor of the Student Alumni Centre to build their own mini LEGO figure. Running from noon to 5 p.m., the activity offers a casual option for students looking to fit a short break into their day.
The event provides an opportunity to take part in something hands-on between classes or while spending time on campus. Students do not need to dedicate an entire afternoon to a scheduled fitness class or evening event to participate, making it another option for those balancing busy academic schedules.
Wellness Week extends into the library
For students who still need to spend time catching up on coursework, wellness activities will also be available at the James A. Gibson Library and Learning Commons from Nov. 2 to 6.
The library’s Wellness Week programming provides another way for students to engage with wellness resources while remaining in a familiar academic space. BUSU’s broader wellness programming also directs students to resources addressing different aspects of well-being, including physical and financial health.
By including wellness opportunities across campus, the week gives students different ways to consider their well-being without necessarily having to step away from their usual routines entirely.
Students can find the full event schedule and additional wellness resources on the BUSU Wellness Week webpage.