Mind moves matter: Wellbeing tips from a University of Warwick Chevening scholar

There’s no denying that moving to a new country to pursue a master’s degree can feel overwhelming! From adjusting to a different culture to managing academic pressures, there’s a lot to get used to.

When I first started my Chevening journey at the University of Warwick, I found myself torn between FOMO (fear of missing out) and JOMO (joy of missing out)! But I soon realised that looking after my wellbeing was key to making the most of Warwick’s culturally vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment.

The University of Warwick’s crest bears the motto ‘Mens agitat molem’, which translates to ‘Mind moves matter’: a reminder of how our mindset shapes our experiences. With this in ‘mind’, I am going to share some of the key wellbeing insights I’ve gained along the way that have helped me to make the most of my study abroad experience (and might help you too!).

Yi Feng Khoo with fellow scholars on campus

Be kind to your mind

One simple way to do this is by giving thanks often.

Positive psychologist Barbara Fredrickson’s ’broaden-and-build’ theory explains how gratitude unlocks positive emotions, initiating upward spirals, helping us grow and think more openly.

Each day, I keep a ‘got-done’ list where I write down three good things that happened. It’s like a Jedi mind trick for boosting positivity!

Keep moving

Physical activity works well to reduce stress! I’ve found that taking part in weekly ‘moving meditation’ with Warwick Tai Chi and swimming at the Sports and Wellness Hub on campus have worked best for me.

Simple activities like walking through Warwick’s beautiful campus, spotting the wildlife in Tocil Wood Nature Reserve, or exploring the university’s 24 contemporary sculptures can soothe our nervous system. Bring a friend along for a ‘Walk Talk Walk’ yapping session or simply enjoy the sound of silence.

I like to move it, move it, you like to …?

Yi Feng Khoo at some of the University of Warwick’s 24 sculptures

Matter by connecting with others

Shifting from a ‘me culture’ to a ‘we culture’ is a great first step to cultivating meaningful connections. It can feel scary to reach out. Trusting that we add value to others and honouring our need to feel valued drives me.

This ‘mattering’ mindset inspired me to start #ChevenerConnect chats with some of the 30 Chevening scholars at the University of Warwick. When we share stories from home, our learning and aspirations, it feels like we travel to each other’s countries.

I’m thankful for the diversity that Warwick offers.

Bonus tip: Do good, feel good

Volunteering fosters a sense of purpose and community.

Whether working as a pro-bono consultant with the student-led consulting organisation 180DC or stewarding events at the world-class Warwick Arts Centre, these experiences have helped me grow while making a meaningful impact. Communities, corporations, and countries that take volunteering seriously are healthier and happier!

Yi Feng Khoo volunteering at 180DC

Final thoughts

Our wellbeing is in our hands. By being kind to our minds, moving with intention, and mattering by contributing, we create fulfilling and balanced experiences for ourselves and others.

Mind moves matter – may you be well!