The power of the 20 second hug

We know it's an incredibly challenging time for all our students trying to manage the uncertainty, loss, and stress of lockdowns and COVID, and to balance your study and life demands.

ACU staff member and Melbourne-based psychologist Chris Cheers, has put together some ideas on what to do when you are dealing with lockdown fatigue. 

Some ways to challenge the stress cycle:

• Slow deep breathing - you can use a guided breathing and mindfulness practice app, like Insight Timer, or follow a guided practice in mediation from Dr Kristin Neff
• Hugs - hug a person or a pet and count to 20
• Let it out - have a big laugh or a big cry
• Get creative - engage in a creative activity: writing, painting, cooking or playing an instrument
• Exercise - whatever that looks like for you, get outside if you can.

Check out our ebooks and listen to audiobooks in ACU Borrow Box.