Living Healthy with International Students in London

VTV.vn - The living environment in London is prompting many young people to develop more positive habits - from exercise and diet to mental health care.

Photo: Getty Images.

London (UK) is often mentioned for its prestigious schools and large student community from all over the world . But for many international students, besides the knowledge gained in the classroom, the city also offers another lesson: learning how to live healthily and take care of oneself when living away from home for the first time.

A city that encourages people to exercise more.

The adaptation process isn't always easy. Cold weather, sunless winters, or feelings of loneliness in the first few months are common experiences for many international students. However, the living environment in London also helps many young people develop more positive habits – from exercise and diet to mental health care.

Unlike the habit of commuting by public transport, life in London requires students to walk a lot. From the underground station to schools, libraries, or supermarkets, walking a few kilometers each day has almost become a natural part of life.

In London, students have to walk quite a lot. Photo: Getty Images

Benjamin Harford, who works in education in London and frequently interacts with international students, observes that this is one of the most noticeable positive changes in many international students.

"You guys walk a lot, are more proactive in taking care of your bodies, and are starting to pay attention to your health in a more sustainable way. Many of you only get into the habit of going to the gym, jogging, or spending time in the park after coming here," he shared.

Green spaces help balance life.

Despite being a large and bustling metropolis, London is renowned for its extensive park system. For many international students, this is one of the most enjoyable and pleasant aspects of the city.

On weekends, many students choose to study in parks, have picnics with friends, jog around lakes, or simply lie down and read under large trees to relax after a stressful week of studying.

London is famous for its extensive system of parks overflowing with greenery, and its historic schools nestled beneath the trees... Photo: Getty Images

Green spaces like Hyde Park, Regent's Park, and Hampstead Heath have become familiar destinations for many young people from all over the world.

"In London, people place great importance on rest and work-life balance. After school, students often go to the park, take walks, or participate in outdoor activities instead of just staying in their rooms," Benjamin Harford added.

The lush green campus of University College London

Healthcare culture is very "everyday".

One thing that surprises many international students is that in London, healthcare doesn't feel stressful or complicated.

Many universities have gyms for students, yoga classes, workshops on sleep and mental health, free counseling services, and a wide range of active sports clubs.

In addition, young people in London tend to eat less sugar, carefully read food ingredients, prioritize organic food, and spend time on stress-reducing activities.

Benjamin Harford and international students

According to Benjamin Harford, the most valuable thing is that many international students are gradually changing their perspective on health. “They no longer think of healthcare as something only to do when they are sick. Here, getting enough sleep, walking, resting, or seeking mental health support are all considered perfectly normal,” he said.

Learn how to take care of yourself while away from home.

For many international students, London is not just a place to study, but also a space to learn how to grow and mature in a very practical way. This could include cooking a decent meal for themselves, maintaining an exercise routine amidst a busy study schedule, knowing when to rest when overwhelmed, or proactively connecting with the community to avoid self-isolation.

In a new environment, without the familiar reminders from family, every small decision in daily life becomes part of the process of becoming independent. From managing expenses and arranging study and rest time effectively to monitoring physical and mental health, everything requires proactiveness that you may not have truly focused on before.

Male students at Harrow High School prepare to participate in a sporting event.

In the long run, the process of self-care not only helps adapt to life away from home, but also forms an important foundation for independence. By understanding what they need and knowing how to meet their basic needs, individuals will be more resilient to change – not only during their time studying abroad, but also in the years to come.

In a large and bustling city, living a healthy life sometimes starts with very small things: a walk under the trees, sitting in a park after school, or the feeling of knowing how to take care of yourself even when you're far from home.

Source: https://vtv.vn/song-khoe-cung-du-hoc-sinh-o-london-1002605311414376.htm