Wellness Month for Doctoral Candidates
Promoting mental and physical health during the month of May to help you manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Read on to find out about events, support and resources to help you thrive.
Are you ready to start thriving?
Don't miss these inspirational wellness events
Wed 30 April and Fri 2 May: Sweat, Stretch, and De-stress (in person dance-themed exercise, made possible through the School of Graduate Studies’ Creating Connections Grant)
Thu 8 May: Holistic Wellbeing for PhD Students, with Rachel King (in person)
Thu 8 May: Time for Research, with Hugh Kearns (online)
Mon 12 May to Fri 16 May: Wiki Whai Hauora
Wed 21 May: Doctoral Morning Tea at Grafton Campus (in person)
Fri 23 May: Doctoral Morning Tea at City Campus (in person)
If the booking links take you to Wahapū, but you do not have access to Wahapū, you can register via our online doctoral event registration page.
TOP TIP: Keep an eye on your faculty newsletters to learn about faculty-specific wellness events for doctoral candidates during the month of May.
Check out Desiree Dickerson's online talks
Get motivated to change your life for the better by listening to our series of bite-sized videos by Desiree Dickerson.
Desiree is a former neuroscience postdoctoral researcher and clinical psychologist who believes that a healthier approach to research is possible and supports positive change in those striving to perform well in the high pressure world of academia.
Her six-minute talks will help you thrive by giving you insights into the foundations for mental space and energy (sleep, nutrition, exercise, socialising, and relaxation), as well as imposter syndrome, perfectionism, productivity, procrastination, inner critic, process vs goal, and filling your bucket.
For starters, Desiree's advice is that if you can only change only thing in your life, it should be sleep: "Prioritising your sleep is the greatest gift you can give your wellbeing," she says.
Campus Care supports holistic wellbeing
Te Papa Manaaki | Campus Care is a safe, confidential and free service that supports the health, wellbeing and safety of everyone at University of Auckland. The University also has many other avenues if you are seeking help and personal support.
Get physically active and boost your mental health
Hiwa, the University's new recreation centre in Symonds Street, is open from 6am to 10pm on weekdays and from 7am to 7pm on weekends. Why not go along and try out a class? There's something for everyone: yoga, dancefit, karate, pilates, swimming, squash, aqua zumba, boxfit and many more. Plus there's a really great coffee shop!
Learn more about what's on offer at the Hiwa Recreation Centre, and discover how the Actively Well programme can help you.
And lastly...
Top tips that really work
- Take regular breaks: Step away from your work to recharge. A short walk or a quick chat with a friend can do wonders.
- Stay connected: Join study groups or attend university events to build a support network.
- Practice self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it's reading, cooking, or exercising.
- Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors or counsellors if you're feeling overwhelmed.