News

Let it go!

Studying requires effort, concentration and energy. Some days it will feel like you would rather do anything else other than sit down and get on with your assignment! Negative thoughts can also enter your head – making you doubt yourself or your ability. On days like this it is important to try and get into the right mind set. One way to achieve this is through simple relaxation techniques.

Here are some easy techniques to help you chill out:

  1. Breathing – the easiest way to meditate. Listen to the natural pattern of your breath and think about nothing else. Notice your body movements. Keep thinking about your breathing.
  1. Nature – find a quiet place in nature and then sit or stand with your eyes closed. Experience the sights, sounds, smells and the feelings around you. You don’t have to go anywhere special – try your garden or your local park.
  1. Walking – concentrate fully on the rhythm of your step. Listen, feel the weight of your arms. Focus on your body and nothing else.

If you are short of time, here are a few quick options to help you refocus and de-stress..

  1. Three count breaths – get back to basics and slowly take a long, deep breath. Breathe in for three counts – hold for three counts – breathe out for three counts. And repeat.
  1. Stop! – Is your mind racing and you can’t focus on what you need to do? Raise your hand and tell your mind to stop! It helps to do the action and say it aloud. Putting negativity or doubts to one side will help you to move forward.
  1. Positive affirmation – remind yourself why you are studying. Tell yourself you can do it and you are going to do it. Choose a mantra that makes you feel positive. Anytime you feel your motivation slipping – say your mantra out loud or look in a mirror and tell it to yourself.
Important information for new learners

eCampus NZ as a business unit of Open Polytechnic, is now part of Te Pūkenga – New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology.

From 1 January 2023, eCampus NZ will no longer enrol new learners into study plans delivered on the eCampus NZ learning platform.

However, all courses/programmes will still be available for online study through Open Polytechnic - Te Pūkenga.

The eCampus NZ team is here for you. If you are still experiencing ongoing issues related to Cyclone Gabrielle, please contact your advisor or facilitator so we can work with you to get you back on track.