Remote Learning and Well-Being

Take Care of Yourself

Do five minutes of exercise for every hour of work.

  • Try working in 30-minute or 1-hour increments and spend the last 5 minutes doing some light exercise (e.g., sun salutations, jumping jacks, push-ups, air squats).
  • You can study in athletic clothes to stay motivated (and comfortable)!

Take a daily walk.

  • Spending time outside (and exposing yourself to natural light) can improve your focus, boost your mood, reduce stress, and help you sleep better.

Keep healthy snacks around.

  • Try to keep healthy snacks around, but don't beat yourself up for the occasional lazy day and bowls of ice cream.

Try putting your phone on airplane mode.

  • If the news and social media are creating stress, try putting your phone in airplane mode, even for short periods of time.

Schedule video study groups and social time.

  • Texting in real time provides some connection, but seeing the face of a friend or classmate can actively decrease feelings of isolation.

Make your workspace as soothing as possible.

  • Flowers, house plants, and pictures of beautiful places can create a sense of peace.

Look at the Dean of Students Office's recommendations.

Take a look at the Dean of Students Office's recommendations for staying physically active and mentally healthy.

woman doing yoga

Reach Out

Stay engaged with your Harvard community.

Book a Zoom appointment with an ARC Academic Coach.

If you need help with creating a balanced schedule, figuring out strategies to get around procrastination, or finding ways to connect with others, book a Zoom appointment with an Academic Coach through the ARC Scheduler.

Meet with an ARC Peer Tutor.

  • Peer Tutors are available in the Fall and Spring semesters to meet with students via Zoom. 
  • Use the ARC Scheduler or Tutor Matcher to meet with a Peer Tutor. 

Explore the virtual resources at the Center for Wellness and Health Promotion.

Connect with Harvard University Health Services (HUHS).

For guidance about managing fear and anxiety around the coronavirus pandemic, Harvard University Health Services offers guidance in this HUHS pdf. Also visit Harvard University Health Services for any other physical or mental health concerns.

Connect with Counseling and Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

  • If you need to talk to a mental health counselor, Harvard’s Counseling and Mental Health Services and Behavioral Health is currently providing telemedicine via Zoom.
  • CAMHS also provides therapy groups, support groups, and workshops via Zoom.
  • More details can be found on the CAMHS website.

Accordion style