Focus on Wellbeing for Doctoral Candidates
For the month of May, we’re highlighting the importance of mental and physical health. Read on to find events and resources that will help you thrive.
Doctoral Morning Tea
Virtual Doctoral Morning Tea for Off-Campus Candidates (online):
We're hosting our first Virtual Doctoral Morning Tea and would love to see all our off-campus and part-time candidates there. You'll be able to create connections and explore the many development opportunities you can engage with, even though you can't get to campus regularly. Friday 23 May.
To register, enter the following URL in your browser:
https://wahapu.auckland.ac.nz/q9456/virtual-doctoral-morning-tea-con
The Art of Storytelling: The Art Collection Tour
You're invited to visit a selection of the diverse and significant artworks from the University's Art Collection, to learn about the role that art plays in creating welcoming and enriching environments around campus.
This tour will be led by Art Collection Advisor Madeleine Gifford and will focus on the ways that artists communicate personal stories and collaborate with others in their making. Historic and contemporary artworks are included, by celebrated Aotearoa artists like Maureen Lander, Emily Karaka, Lisa Reihana and Ayesha Green.
Monday 26 May: To register, enter the following URL in your browser:
https://wahapu.auckland.ac.nz/q9v19/campus-art-tour-connection-and-i
Wellbeing, Dance and Movement
Stretch and Mobility Workshop with Kelly MacDonald (in person)
Join us for a free stretch and mobility workshop exclusively for doctoral candidates. This 45-60 minute session will cover effective techniques to improve flexibility, reduce tension, and enhance your overall physical wellbeing. Thursday 22 May.
To register, enter the following URL in your browser:
https://wahapu.auckland.ac.nz/q9752/stretch-and-mobility-workshop-wi
Dance Therapy Workshop (in person)
Join us for a workshop designed specifically for doctoral students to unwind, recharge, and connect. Through simple movement, breathwork, and relaxation techniques, you'll release tension and foster clarity – no prior dance experience needed. Saturday 31 May.
To register, enter the following URL in your browser:
https://wahapu.auckland.ac.nz/q9v16/dance-therapy-workshop-for-docto
NOTE: If the booking links take you to Wahapū, but you do not have access to Wahapū, you can register via our online doctoral event registration page.
TOP TIP: Keep an eye on your faculty newsletters to learn about faculty-specific wellness events for doctoral candidates during the month of May.
Campus Care offers free wellbeing support
Te Papa Manaaki | Campus Care is a safe, confidential and free service that supports the health, wellbeing and safety of everyone at University of Auckland. The University also has many other avenues if you are seeking help and personal support.
Try out a class at Hiwa Recreation Centre
Hiwa, the University's new recreation centre in Symonds Street, is open from 6am to 10pm on weekdays and from 7am to 7pm on weekends. Why not go along and try out a class? There's something for everyone: yoga, dancefit, karate, pilates, swimming, squash, aqua zumba, boxfit and many more. Plus there's a really great coffee shop!
Learn more about what's on offer at the Hiwa Recreation Centre, and discover how the Actively Well programme can help you.
Motivational talks by Desiree Dickerson
Get motivated to change your life for the better by listening to our series of bite-sized videos by Desiree Dickerson.
Desiree is a former neuroscience postdoctoral researcher and clinical psychologist who believes that a healthier approach to research is possible and supports positive change in those striving to perform well in the high pressure world of academia.
Her six-minute talks will help you thrive by giving you insights into the foundations for mental space and energy (sleep, nutrition, exercise, socialising, and relaxation), as well as imposter syndrome, perfectionism, productivity, procrastination, inner critic, process vs goal, and filling your bucket.
For starters, Desiree's advice is that if you can only change only thing in your life, it should be sleep: "Prioritising your sleep is the greatest gift you can give your wellbeing," she says.
Top tips that really work
- Take regular breaks: Step away from your work to recharge. A short walk or a quick chat with a friend can do wonders.
- Stay connected: Join study groups or attend university events to build a support network.
- Practise self-care: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it's reading, cooking, or exercising.
- Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors or counsellors if you're feeling overwhelmed.
Doctoral candidates share their thoughts
Watch doctoral candidates Yan Xie (Faculty of Arts and Education) and Rox-Anne L'Italien-Bruneau (Faculty of Science) share their thoughts and ideas about wellbeing.