Mindfullness

Wellbeing

6 July

Pause and Breathe: The Benefits of Mindfulness for Students

Uni life can feel overwhelming. Between assignments, classes, and life admin, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of stress and busyness. But what if you could give your mind a breather — and in doing so, improve your focus, wellbeing, and even your study outcomes?

This is where mindfulness comes in.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is simply paying attention to the present moment, without judgment. It’s about noticing your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings with curiosity rather than criticism.

You don’t have to sit cross-legged on a mountain to practise mindfulness. You can:

Take a few deep breaths before starting your study session.
Notice the feeling of your feet on the ground while walking.
Do a 5–10 minute guided meditation using Headspace or Apple Fitness+.

Why mindfulness helps students

Reduces stress and anxiety: Mindfulness lowers cortisol levels, helping you manage overwhelm.
Improves focus and memory: By training your attention, you can stay present while reading or listening in lectures.
Supports emotional regulation: Helps you respond calmly rather than react impulsively during stressful situations.
Enhances wellbeing: Builds resilience and a sense of calm, even during busy study periods.

What does the research say?

Studies have found that regular mindfulness practice can:

Improve working memory and cognitive flexibility.
Reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety in students.
Enhance overall wellbeing and self-compassion.

How to get started

Start small: Just 5–10 minutes a day can make a difference.
Try guided mindfulness apps like Headspace, Insight Timer, or Apple Fitness+.
Incorporate mindfulness into everyday activities, like mindful eating or a mindful walk.

Final thoughts

Mindfulness isn’t about emptying your mind. It’s about creating a space between you and your thoughts so you can respond with intention. In a world that constantly demands your attention, taking a moment to pause and breathe is a powerful act of self-care.

Try adding a few mindful minutes into your daily routine this week, and see how it helps your study, stress levels, and overall wellbeing.

Grant Freeman

Grant is an avid traveller and current Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning student at the University of Adelaide. He serves as the student representative for the AIML program and is the Honorary Chair and former President of the Masters in Technology Student Association. Passionate about using AI to make a positive impact, Grant enjoys exploring new places, connecting with people, and finding ways to improve student experiences.