Hi! I’m Ariadna, an MSc Neuroscience student at the IoPPN based on the Denmark Hill campus, originally from Argentina. When I first moved to London to start my postgraduate degree, I was excited… But also insecure. Being far from home and starting over felt overwhelming. I worried that, as an international student, making friends would be hard.
I want to share the day I decided to try a yoga class as part of the BeActive programme at King’s. What began as a nervous step outside my comfort zone became a confidence boost, a stress reliever and a way to make new friends. Here’s why showing up changed everything.
From solo workouts to something new
Back home, I stuck to solo exercise like running or going to the gym alone. Group classes intimidated me. Still, I kept noticing how many people in London were doing Pilates or yoga together as a social activity. Apparently, sociable sports can significantly boost mental health and connection not only through meeting new people but also through the sense of accountability you get from doing sport with others.
I liked the idea. I just kept telling myself I was too busy.
During my first week of classes, I saw a flyer for a BeActive yoga class at Denmark Hill. I remembered my idea to join a class and since I hadn’t tried yoga before I registered and gave it a chance. I almost didn’t go. I told myself I’d be tired after lectures. But I showed up.
Best decision ever.
Showing up alone
I went alone and didn’t know anyone. But once I started chatting to people around me, I realised something comforting: most of them had also come alone.
The instructor asked if anyone had injuries or if it was their first time (yes, me). The class was adapted for beginners. No pressure. No judgment. Just guidance and encouragement, which instantly made me feel safe.
One hour, no phone, total focus
Have you ever been so focused you lose track of time? That was me.
I followed the instructor’s voice. I focused on my breathing. I held each posture as best as I could. Suddenly, one hour had passed and I hadn’t checked my phone once.
The combination of stretching, meditation and gentle effort left me calm and clear-headed. Relaxed, but energised. It was the perfect reset after a long academic day. And, as a neuroscience student, I love knowing there’s science behind that feeling. Research published in Nature, Febbraio, 2016, explains that exercise truly acts as medicine. It supports mental and physical health by:
- Supporting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which protects neurons
- Improving metabolic balance and reducing the impact of inactivity
- Lowering the risk of several chronic diseases
In simple words: movement supports your brain and your body.
More than just exercise
I kept attending classes at Denmark Hill because it was easy to go after lectures. Week by week, I recognised familiar faces. A small “hi” became a conversation. Conversations became friendships. What I valued most was speaking to people outside my course. It helped me disconnect from academic pressure and feel part of a wider community.
I joined yoga expecting exercise. I found confidence, connection and a reminder that I can do hard things (even when they scare me).
Just go
If you’re unsure about trying something new, my advice is simple: just go.
Go alone.
Go nervous.
Go even if you think you’ll be tired.
BeActive sessions are designed for all levels. You don’t need experience. You don’t need to bring a friend. You just need to show up.
Step outside your comfort zone and book a BeActive session at King’s. Try the class. Give yourself that hour. You never know what confidence, calm or friendships might be waiting for you on the mat.