The Library Blog

Edinburgh Napier University

Category: Library Information (Page 8 of 12)

Stress Awareness Month promotional image

Stress Awareness Month

04/04/2023 / / 0 Comments

  Stress awareness month

April is stress awareness month, its aim is to remind us of the importance of taking time to pause and understand what the purpose of stress is, our triggers, how it affects us physically and mentally, and the impact it has in our day-to-day lives. 

It began in April 1992 in response to the rising crisis that stress has caused in our society. It is designed to open up conversations about stress in our lives and remove some of the stigmas around talking about stress.

This Year

The month also allows us to look at the methods that can be applied to help us deal with stress and become more resilient. Furthermore, it asks us to take a holistic approach to stress looking at not only our minds but the health of our bodies also.

The 30 Day Challenge

This year Stress.org.uk is challenging people to pick one action each for their Physical, Mental and Emotional Well-being to carry out every day. This is based on the idea that it takes 30 days to create a new habit. For instance, Why not try taking the stairs instead of the lift, eat one extra vegetable with Dinner or make a little time each day to meditate. Check out their website for more ideas.

University Resources

Look out for various activities and events that may be happening in your workplace or online. You can visit your staff Internet’s Health & Wellbeing page to see what services are available.

For students, visit your University’s Wellbeing page, and see what they offer. This may include signposting you to other organizations.

Additionally, Students at Edinburgh Napier University can access the Student Wellbeing, Support and Inclusion page using the following link: Wellbeing Support and Inclusion

Or perhaps you would like to look at the various resources our library offers, by visiting the Libguide’s Wellbeing Collection page.

Why not check out our Virtual Relaxation Space for a wide range of activities to relax with.

 

Above all, The most important thing to take away is, you are not alone and there is help available.

Information related to stress can also be found on the NHS website and there is support available from many sources through the University Webpages.

 

Sharing ideas:

What do you do to relieve stress, let us know in the comments? 

 

How to reduce stress:

Meditation

Breathing Exercises

Go for walks in nature

Spend time with loved ones

Exercise

Playing games

 

By Mo Almas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cherry blossom festival

27/03/2023 / / 0 Comments

Cherry blossom festival

When walking or travelling around Edinburgh lately you may have noticed the glorious pink and white blossom on the cherry trees. Because of the colourful blossom, the trees are a favourite in parks and gardens alike. We enjoy the blossom during its short flowering period, but in Japan, the event is turned into a festival.

Cherry blossom festival in Japan

Every spring the islands of Japan are covered in swathes of delicate pink as the cherry trees blossom. Steeped in history and tradition, the cherry blossom season is a highlight of the Japanese calendar. The Japanese tradition of the cherry blossom festival (hanami) is a centuries-old celebration. Hanami means “viewing flowers” and the tradition is believed to date back more than 1,000 years to when aristocrats enjoyed looking at the blossoms and wrote poems inspired by them. The arrival of the blossoms also meant that rice planting could begin.

Cherry blossoms normally begin blooming in January in Okinawa and reach their peak in late March to April in the Honshu region. In Hokkaido, cherry blossoms are usually in full bloom in May, and usually appear in Tokyo and Kyoto sometime between March and April, depending upon the climate earlier in the year.

What happens during the festival?

The most popular type of cherry tree is the Sakura, and the blooms only last around two weeks. During this time the Japanese flock to parks where they hold picnics under the trees. The parks can become very busy, and it can become difficult to find the perfect spot. Although the blossom is the festival’s main attraction there are also traditional Japanese performances and street festivals. Artificial lights are used to ensure parties can last well into the night.

Arguably no country celebrates the cherry blossom with the excitement of Japan, but Hanami is also celebrated to a lesser extent in China, Korea, and Taiwan. Smaller celebrations can be enjoyed throughout the U.S. and Europe.

You can read about our previous Spring post

Or find some reading with our Lions Gate Garden Collection on LibrarySearch 

Photo source: AJ unsplash 

Clocks going forward 2023 blog post banner of analogue alarm clock

Clocks going forward 2023

24/03/2023 / / 0 Comments

Clocks going forward 2023

It’s now springtime. Days and nights are getting longer and it will soon be time to put the clocks forward as daylight saving time or British Summer Time (BST) begins. Don’t be late for work or that important meet-up with friends. Remember that the clocks go forward in the UK at 01:00 on Sunday, March 26 2023. If you would like to learn more about daylight saving time, click on the link below:

https://www.timeanddate.com/time/dst/

Make the most of the longer summer nights by getting out and about in the fresh air. Exercise is good for both physical and mental health. Read how extra daylight is good for our health by following the link below:

https://www.southwales.ac.uk/news/news-2022/daylight-savings-how-an-hour-of-extra-sunlight-can-benefit-your-mental-health/

By Vivienne Hamilton

Image by Photo by Abdul A on Unsplash

dog in st patricks day hat for blog post St. Patrick's Day

St. Patrick’s Day

17/03/2023 / / 2 Comments

St. Patrick’s Day

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all our Irish students and staff.

St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated on 17th March. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland, but there are parades and parties worldwide due to the large numbers of people with Irish heritage spread across the world.

Source

History of St.Patrick’s Day

Although there are no exact dates of his birth, it is believed that Patrick was born in the Roman-occupied north of England. and that he died on 17th March. His autobiographical work “Confessio” claims that when he was around 16, Patrick was taken from his home in Britain by Irish pirates who took him to Ireland as a slave. There he looked after animals for around six years and converted to Christianity. He fled captivity after hearing a voice telling him he would soon go home. He found passage on a ship and after several days walking he returned home. Following his return, Patrick studied Christianity in Europe-mostly in Auxerre, France and was ordained into the priesthood there. He later returned to Ireland as a missionary, and by the 7th century was already revered as the patron saint of Ireland.

The Irish Potato Famine

There are many people throughout the world with Irish ancestors due to the large numbers who emigrated because of the Irish Potato Famine. It started in 1845 when a fungus ruined around 75% of the annual potato crop, which most of the population relied on for food. Around one million Irish died before the end of the famine in 1852. Another million emigrated to countries such as Great Britain or the United States, and therefore you will find St. Patrick’s Day celebrated in many countries worldwide.

Celebrations

Today descendants of the immigrants celebrate their Irish heritage by dressing up in colourful clothing in green and gold (the colours of the Irish flag), joining parades of pipe bands, cheerleaders, and floats. One of the biggest parades outside Ireland is in New York which held its first parade in 1762. This was a time when the wearing of green was a sign of Irish pride but was banned in Ireland. The parade gave participants the freedom to speak Irish, wear green, sing Irish songs and play the pipes to Irish tunes that were meaningful to the Irish immigrants of that time.

Aside from parades, many pubs and restaurants host events with live music and singing, and you shouldn’t have to look too hard to find one in Edinburgh!

By Vivienne Hamilton

Read more on world festivals and traditions with our articles:

Chinese New Year

Scottish Traditions: Burn’s Night

The Ethiopia Timkat Festival,

New Year Traditions from Around the World

Also, don’t forget you can find out more about everything mentioned in this article at Librarysearch.napier.ac.uk

 

 

Image of mathematical symbols for post on Pi Anyone? International Pi Day

Pi Anyone? International Pi Day

14/03/2023 / / 0 Comments

Pi Anyone? International Pi Day

The 14th of March is International Day of Mathematics and International Pi Day.

What is International Mathematics Day?

On the 26th of November 2019 UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation) decided March the 14th should be declared the International Day of Mathematics.

The main purpose of the day was to celebrate and highlight the importance of Mathematics. Making people aware mathematics is everywhere and used in everyday life, as well as in specialist industries.

Prior to the birth of International Mathematics Day, the 14th of March was International Pi Day. Continue reading

Wellbeing space

Changes to the spaces at Craiglockhart library

27/02/2023 / / 0 Comments

Changes to the spaces at Craiglockhart library

We have made some changes to the library spaces at Craiglockhart campus over the past few months. By removing unused bookshelves at the rear of the library the area is now much more open and the space is being used more effectively.

The relaxation space has been made larger and is brighter and less confined. There are lots of helpful books and posters promoting relaxation, taking time out from your studies and de-stressing. Look out for our different suggestions throughout the year from birdwatching to beachcombing. We have provided some new games, non-academic books and origami paper. We have increased the amount of seating and returned the cushions and throws to the area.

Shelf Help

Our shelf help books are now in a dedicated space making them easier to find.

The jigsaw tables have been moved away from study spaces and there are extra puzzles to help complete.

There are 4 new single study booths and 2 extra round tables for groups, along with some new social seating. All these spaces are available on a first come first served basis so if you think you would like to use any of them, arrive early as they are proving popular!

PCs

Along with the changes to the library spaces some of our PCs now have dual monitors.

We hope you like the changes and think the new spaces are useful, and please remember, your feedback is always welcome.

We have access to shelf help through our blog https://libguides.napier.ac.uk/shelfhelp

And more information on Craiglockhart library https://my.napier.ac.uk/library/about-the-library/craiglockhart

 

International cat day cat Bon Bon

Pets of the Library Part 2

20/02/2023 / / 1 Comment

Pets of the Library Part 2

After the last few years of remote working and with staff working more from home now, meeting their feline companions during online meetings has been so much fun. Little furry faces and tails have often popped up mid-way through a very important discussion. Many of our staff have loved being able to spend more time with their creatures of choice; I know I love having a friendly work buddy to hang out with at home during the workday.

So to celebrate this year’s International Love your pet day we think it would be nice to introduce you all to some of our furry friends.

Continue reading

Stressed student photo from A Guide to Beating Exam Stress

A Guide to Beating Exam Stress

09/12/2022 / / 0 Comments

A Guide to Beating Exam Stress

It might be hard to believe, but exams are nearly here and 2022 is nearly over. I know, right!?

The exam period can be a highly stressful time, and it’s understandable you may be feeling overwhelmed, stressed or unsure about how to manage yourself and your time. If you’re looking for help, there are a number of places you can go to find it.

Our libraries are open to you for individual and group study. We’ve got a great variety of resources if you’re in need of some study tips, no matter where you are in your academic journey. Pop on over to our exam support reading list for resources on studying smart, mindfulness, taking successful exams, study skills, and beating stress.

Here are our top tips to help get you through.

Top Tips for Beating Exam Stress

1. Timetable and prepare a study plan.

2. Create a study space that is comfortable, quiet, well-lit, organized, and has no distractions nearby.

3. Put your information into a format that allows you to absorb it best.

4. Take regular study breaks. Alternating subjects you’re studying will also help.

5. Remember self-care!

6. Schedule fun activities to reduce your stress.

7. Eat nutritious foods and exercise regularly to keep your brain power and energy up!

8. Make sure you have all the items you need for any exams. Get them ready the day before to avoid rushing on the day.

9. Remove anything distracting to help you focus. Try putting your phone in a different room when revising.

10. Write down revision targets for the day, review your progress, and update your revision timetable and targets appropriately.

Most of all:  Remember to rest – get a good night’s sleep – and also relax! Check out our Virtual Relaxation Space, Or one of our special exam chillout areas in all our Libraries. You can find them next to the relaxation zones.

Keep an eye out on our Digital screens for more exam tips. Here’s a taster:

Further Support

Please do remember that if you’re experiencing difficulties, get in touch with Napier’s Counselling & Mental Wellbeing service. Drop them an email at counselling@napier.ac.uk or call them on 0131 455 2459.

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Winter and Christmas recommendations

05/12/2022 / / 0 Comments

Winter and the Christmas holidays are just around the corner, so it’s time to get cosy, put your feet up and get your fluffy socks on, have a hot drink, and enjoy some winter-warming content!

 

Here are some of the library recommendations this season:

 

Dr Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas 

 

The Grinch is a solitary creature that lives on Mount Crumpit and tries to cancel Christmas by stealing decorations and presents in the town of Whoville on Christmas Eve.

 

Merchiston DVD Collection 791.4334 HOW 

 

 

 

Image of the Grinch with a coffee

The Grinch with a coffee Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

 

 

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

 

This classic novel addresses social class and human values, about an orphan named Pip, who encounters Magwitch an escaped convict, and Miss Havisham a spinster rejected by her lover on her wedding day. Pip falls in love with Estella who has been raised by Miss Havisham taught to show unrequited love.

 

https://napier.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/44NAP_INST/13v8mut/alma9920447910102111

 

Merchiston Main stock 823.8 DIC

 

The Winter’s Tale William Shakespeare

 

A play in five acts- a romance or tragic comedy, consumed with jealousy and the power of love. In the first half, Leontes imprisons his pregnant wife on suspicion of infidelity. In the second half his lost daughter is rescued by shepherds and has fallen in love with a young prince.

 

https://napier.primo.exlibrisgroup.com/permalink/44NAP_INST/13v8mut/alma9920698270102111 

 

Merchiston Main stock 822.33 SHA

 

 

The Nutcracker

 

This is the most popular ballet and takes place during a Christmas party, where a young child named Clara is gifted a nutcracker doll and at night the doll comes to life in a twist of magical adventures.

 

You can watch the Royal Ballet on Box of Broadcasts: 

 

https://learningonscreen.ac.uk/ondemand/index.php/prog/001048B6?bcast=76072199

 

Image of the Nutcracker Ballet Dancer

The Nutcracker Ballet Photo by Hudson Hintze on Unsplash

 

 

The Chronicles of Narnia. The lion, the witch, and the wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

 

Fantasy novel set in World War Two, where four children are evacuated to live in the countryside. Upon which they discover a wardrobe that leads to a mysterious land named Narnia, inhabited by Mythical creatures, and ruled by the White Witch.

 

Merchiston DVD collection 791.4372 CHR 

 

You can find more resources on our Christmas reading list here.

 

 

 

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

03/12/2022 / / 0 Comments

Held annually on 3 December International Day of Persons with Disabilities was established by the United Nations (UN) in 1992 with the aim of promoting the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities, and breaking down the social and physical barriers faced which prevent persons with disabilities from participating fully in many aspects of daily life.   

Edinburgh Napier University welcomes people with disabilities, long-term health conditions and specific learning difficulties and is committed to providing students with support in all aspects of University life and aims to provide a positive and supportive environment for all students. 

The Library aims to support people with disabilities and those with individual needs by providing services such as assistance when collecting items from shelves and understanding library layouts, providing texts in digital formats, and enabling a designated friend/family member (with permission) to act on your behalf. If you require them, there are height-adjustable desks and accessible toilets in each of the Libraries.  

For eligible students with a print impairment, the Disability Inclusion Team can also set up accounts to Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Bookshare, a huge online digital library. RNIB Bookshare opens up the world of reading in education for learners with a print-disability, including those with dyslexia or who are blind or partially sighted. 

 

 

Image of laptop on a desk

Laptop on a desk Photo by Christopher Gower on Unsplash

 

There are many different assistive technology products, equipment, and systems available to enhance learning, working, and daily living for students with disabilities and learning difficulties. The products available to help you with your studies are listed on the Assistive Technology webpages in the Disability Inclusion section on My Napier. These include browser extensions you can install to help with reading, focusing, and viewing documents. Software available includes ClaroRead, a multi-sensory software solution for supporting reading and writing, with visual tools that colour, highlight, and focus on difficult-to-read text, and allows you to read any on-screen text out loud. Sonocent Audio Notetaker is an audio recording app which allows you to annotate your audio recording by adding text notes and coloured category highlighting, either live or when listening back to the recording. These are just a few of the products available to you. Why not have a look at the webpage and see if there might be something to help your studies. 

 

If you are looking for support or would like to find out more about how the Disability Inclusion Team can help you, all the information you need is on the Disability Inclusion webpages on My Napier or you can email disabilityandinclusion@napier.ac.uk. 

If you have any questions about how the Library can support you, please email us at library@napier.ac.uk, phone us on 0131 455 3500, or see our Library webpages.  

 

By Sarah Jeffcott

  

« Older posts Newer posts »

Contact Us

Email: library@napier.ac.uk

Telephone: 0131 455 3500

Twitter: @EdNapLib

Instagram: @ENU_Library​

 

© 2024 The Library Blog

Theme by Anders Norén — Up ↑