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Anxious about exams? You’re not alone! Everyone gets a little panicked. Although it’s not easy to stop feeling stressed, you can use these simple relaxation techniques to keep your nerves under control and calm your mind.
Here are some tips and techniques to keep stress at bay before an exam.
Exercise is brilliant for reducing stress. It improves blood-flow to the brain, helping you to think more clearly, and it releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and feel-good hormones. Playing any kind of sport, jogging or even taking your pet for a stroll are fantastic ways to release stress in an orderly manner.
There’s nothing better than losing yourself in a good movie plot to (temporarily) forget about the stresses of stu- dent life. So after a hard day of revision, sit back and chill for the rest of the evening. You deserve the break.
You may think that sitting in front of your books all day, staring at the pages will help you learn, but it really doesn’t. Research has proven that something as simple as a walk can boost your memory and brain power. Fresh air can do a world of good, especially when you need to clear your head.
You may not think this now, but sleep will be your best friend through-out these exams. A good night’s sleep or power nap can help boost your brain and memory functions, and refresh your system.
This could be one of the best types of motivation for exams. Having something to look forward to once your exams are finished will make everything a lot less dreary. Exam time may seem like the longest of your entire life, but knowing that there’s something amazing at the finish (other than passing) will make it all worthwhile!
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed get support from your family, friends and peers. Don’t suffer in silence. Sharing your troubles will help to take the strain off you, and you may find that they have a solution that can help reduce any stress you might be feeling. Remember! A problem shared is a problem halved!
Taking a break from studying to hang out with friends might seem like a waste of precious study time, but it can actually make you more productive. Talking things out with people you trust can give you some clarity. Laughing over coffee and cake can help clear your mind and reboot your focus.
Like everything else in your body, your brain can’t work without energy.
When it comes to boosting brain power, there are some foods and nutrients that have been shown to improve memory, concentration and focus – so that you can perform at your peak during exams.
Fish has a high content of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 is needed for the functioning of the brain, which results in improved memory.
Nuts are a great source of energy and are high in Vitamin E that supports brain health. They are also packed with protein which helps the brain to focus.
Feeling highly stressed because of your upcoming exams? Dark chocolate has been proven to lower stress hormones if eaten daily. It also contains caffeine which promotes better concentration levels.
Though technically not a food, drinking water helps the brain work faster, improves concentration and calms your nerves when stressed. If you don’t consume enough water you risk becoming dehydrated, which can further lead to a drain on your body and mind.
Blueberries have shown to be effective in im- proving and delaying short term memory loss. They’re also a great healthy snack to eat when you’re on a study break.
Green leafy vegetables are excellent for memory enhancement. Broccoli, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower and water- cress will enhance your memory and do your body a world of good.
