Why Are Mental Health Walks So Good for Students?

Making the transition into life as a student can be difficult. Feelings of stress and anxiety can creep up quickly, and you’re far from alone. You’re also not without options. One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to reset your mind is right outside the door of your student accommodation. The humble mental health walk.

For young people navigating strict deadlines, part time work, and homesickness, stepping into the great outdoors can do more for your mental health than you might expect.

What is a Mental Health Walk?

Unlike your usual walk around the local shops, a mental health walk tends to be most beneficial in natural surroundings. It’s a short, intentional walk done to support your mental wellbeing. There’s no need to invest in expensive exercise equipment or even set a destination. The goal is merely to unplug yourself from the stresses of every day life and reconnect with your surroundings.

It might sound too simple to be effective, but that’s part of the reason why it can work.

The Science Behind Why it Works

There’s a reason walking is often recommended by therapists, doctors, and even productivity experts. Here’s what happens when you take a gentle stroll:

• Endorphins kick in: Walking gently raises your heart rate, which helps release endorphins (your brain’s feel good chemicals).
• Cortisol drops: Even a 10 minute walk in nature can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone).
• Creativity improves: A Stanford study found that walking boosts creative thinking by up to 60%.
• Better sleep: Moving your body during the day supports more restful sleep at night.

Put simply, mental health walks are like a reset button for your mind.

Why it’s Ideal for Student Life

University life can feel like a constant balancing act. between assignments, social plans, and figuring your way around a new city. Add exam pressure or homesickness, and it’s no wonder many students report high levels of anxiety and low mood at points during their studies.

Mental health walks fit into student routines perfectly:

• Flexible: You can take a walk between lectures, after dinner, or first thing in the morning.
• Free: No subscriptions or equipment needed.
• Accessible: Whether you’re in a busy city or near campus green space, a walk is always an option.
• Effective: Many students say they return from a walk feeling clearer, calmer, and more in control.

Real Talk: What Makes a Good Mental Health Walk?

Here’s some of the best ways to make the most of your walk, regardless of your schedule or mood.

1. Walk Without Pressure

This isn’t an exercise session that requires burning calories or hitting step goals. Take things at a leisurely pace and take breaks if you need to. Let the walk meet you where you’re mind is currently at.

2. Go Solo or Bring a Mate

Some students love solo walks with a podcast or lo-fi beats. Others prefer to walk and talk with a friend. Either way, walking can help release tension and make space for real connection.

3. Change Your Scenery

Walk through a neighbourhood you haven’t visited yet. Explore a nearby attraction or National Trust site, or simply head to your local park for a picnic with friends. Wherever you go, exploring a new environment helps shift your mindset towards positivity.

Quick Tips for Mental Health Walks

If you’re day is packed and your brain is fried, try one these momentary resets:

• The 5 Minute Reset: Walk around the block. No phone. Just you and your breath.
• Lecture Break Loop: Walk between classes instead of scrolling.
• Study Stretch: When your focus dips, take a 15 minute nature walk. It’ll likely help more than pushing through.

If you’re in need of more support or tips for managing your stress and anxiety, visit Mind’s website for access to trusted mental health recourses.

The Deeper Benefits Over Time

At first, you might not notice much change. When you start to get out regularly, students often report that their mood improves and symptoms of anxiety of reduced.

Other benefits include:

• Helping your ability to think clearly during exams.
• A stronger sense of routine and control.
• More confidence navigating day to day challenges and setbacks.

Creating the habit of setting time in your day aside for a moment of relaxation is what really makes the difference.

Ready to Start Walking?

You don’t need a plan. Just get outside and give it a try.

🌿 Start small.
🎧 Bring music or go quiet.
🧭 Try new routes.
📱 Track how you feel, not how far.

It’s important to know that mental health walks are designed to help you handle every day challenges, not major phycological crises. If you are struggling on a deeper level, talk to your family, friends, and university support services as soon as possible.

Happy Wanderers

Mental health walks are a small change you can make with a big impact. In a life full of noise and stress, they offer you the moment to breath and reconnect with the world around you.

So, next time you feel things are getting a bit much, just remember that a short wander can bring you back down to Earth.

If you need more tips on how support your mental and physical wellness, find them on the health and wellbeing section of our blog.