PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH: PEDAGOGICAL STRATEGIES FOR MAINTAINING BALANCE IN STUDENTS

Abstract

The article examines the relationship between physical activity and psychological health of students in the modern educational environment. It shows that the university learning environment poses a number of challenges for young people, including a sedentary lifestyle, long hours spent at the computer, irregular daily routines, combining study with part-time work, social and psychological adaptation, digital addiction, and excessive emotional stress. These factors lead to increased stress, anxiety, and psycho-emotional exhaustion, which negatively affects both academic performance and the overall well-being of students.Pedagogical strategies aimed at maintaining a balance between students' physical and mental health have been substantiated. Among the key areas are the integration of physical activity into the educational process through the introduction of dynamic breaks, the use of active learning methods, and the universal design of physical education programs; the development of self-regulation and health preservation skills through stress management training, relaxation and breathing practices, and the individualization of physical activity plans; creating an inclusive educational environment by ensuring the accessibility of sports infrastructure, the functioning of psychological services, and the introduction of group forms of physical activity that enhance socialization; combining wellness and environmental practices, including organizing outdoor activities, walks, and hiking trips, and using «green practices» as a resource for restoring energy and preventing anxiety.It was concluded that the systematic combination of these strategies contributes to the formation of health-saving competence in students, increases stress resistance, forms positive motivation for physical activity, and promotes harmonious personal development.The results obtained are of practical importance for optimizing the educational process, developing university programs to support student well-being, and forming an inclusive academic space.