Switch up your assessment routine with nature

If you’ve ever looked outside after months of gloomy weather and suddenly felt amazed by the warmth and sunshine, you’re not alone. As assessment season approaches, the pressure to stay indoors and study for long hours can feel overwhelming.

While academic success is important, so is maintaining your mental wellbeing.

Why do nature breaks matter?

During assessment periods, it’s easy to feel conflicted when others are out enjoying the sunshine while I’m stuck inside revising. I often forget just how much a few minutes of fresh air and greenery can help me. I tend to feel lazy or unmotivated to step outside, convincing myself that I’m too tired or that taking a break will only distract me from my studies.

But I’ve realized that even a short walk in the park can make a huge difference in my mental wellbeing. It helps me clear my head, stay motivated, reduce stress, and improve my concentration.

How to break your routine with nature

Photography walks:

Richmond Park: One of the largest green spaces in London, Richmond Park is famous for its free-roaming deer. From wide-open meadows and ancient woodlands to serene lakes and ponds, it’s a perfect backdrop for nature photography.

Community garden:

Calthorpe community garden: Located in King’s Cross, this green oasis offers a variety of activities. I love these community gardens; they always look so well-kept. I haven’t attended one of their activities yet, but after following them on social media and checking their website, I plan to attend the next vegetarian cooking session.

Flower garden visits:

St. Luke's Gardens: A hidden gem in Chelsea, this small but charming garden is perfect for a quiet retreat. With beautifully arranged flower beds and plenty of seating, it provides a peaceful space away from busy city life. I’ve visited a few times to draw the plants and trees around me, spending time on an activity that doesn’t involve screens.

Regent’s Park rose garden: Regent’s Park is home to over 12,000 roses in a variety of colours and scents. The garden's quiet pathways and scenic views invite relaxation, perfect for a break from a busy day.

Short walks and hikes:

Epping forest: Whether you want a short stroll to clear your mind or a longer hike to boost your endorphins, Epping Forest provides a refreshing change of scenery from urban life. I went to Epping Forest a few months ago with my flatmates. It didn’t feel like we were that close to London! We saw a few dogs and horses along the way and made our nature break a bit less time consuming than a proper hike or walk.

Outdoor sports and yoga:

Holland Park and Brockwell Park: Holland Park has an outdoor training area, tennis courts, and a Japanese garden for relaxation, while Brockwell Park offers an outdoor gym, football pitches, tennis courts, skateboard areas, and plenty of green space for picnics or casual strolls. The atmosphere is very calm and relaxing, and it’s a great way to wind down with your friends while getting some physical activity.

How I incorporate breaks outside in my study routine

Based on the amount of work I have and the weather that day, I try to plan a small outdoor activity during my breaks. On busier days, I’ll take a quick walk or sit outside for a few minutes to recharge. Usually, on weekends when I have more flexibility, I’ll plan something bigger, like a longer walk or a visit to a park.

So, I would recommend you take a break, step out, breathe the fresh air, soak yourself in the sunlight, embrace the calmness of the moment, and recharge yourself for this exam season.