When exams are looming most students feel the crunch in a big way. But are there ways to help take the pressure off when your head is swimming with formulas and theories, dates and names? There certainly is. Read on …
Think Calm and Tranquility
Exercise is a great stress buster
Even if you don’t go to the gym or do anything strenuous, a walk around the neighborhood or a 15-20 minute ride on the treadmill could do a world of good for your body and mind.
Herbal teas are very calming
Try a drop or two of lemon with your tea or a touch of honey. Chamomile tea is particularly soothing to the nerves (and helps calm butterflies in the stomach).
A breath of fresh air
Sometimes when our brain is overloaded with facts, we begin to feel sluggish (inside and out). Remember our brains can only process so much information at once. If you’ve been at it for a while, stop and take a much-needed break. Consider stepping outside for some fresh air. Breathe in deeply. It should help your oxygen levels and leave you feeling more invigorated.
A Relaxing Diversion
Music soothes the soul
Put on your favorite CD and sit back and relax. Take time for mini music breaks. Whatever music suits you is fine. The point is to cut loose and absorb yourself in something other than your studies.
Television and/or movies is always good
You don’t have to save all entertainment for post exam time. Be tuned in enough to yourself to know when enough is enough for one night. Instead of ending your evening with one more page, put the books down and turn on the television. Watch your favorite sitcom or if television’s not your thing, rent a movie before bedtime instead. Mindless entertainment some call it, but at exam time “mindless” is what you need to help you unwind!
Recreational reading
Maybe the last thing you want to do is read another book but reading something you like is a good study diversion. Whether it’s a legal thriller, a chilling murder mystery or a juicy romance- indulge yourself. You deserve it!
Be crafty and creative
Are you a poet, painter, a whiz at needlepoint or perhaps a candle maker? Whatever your hobby, take time away from exam stress to enjoy your creative flair. Free writing is a great outlet for me when I’m stressed. If you are gifted with a creative side put it to good use!
Don’t Neglect Your Health
Take your vitamins and eat a balanced diet
While not necessarily a way to offset the pressure of exams, eating well is always important but especially at this stressful time. Drink lots of water as well and take your vitamins (especially B vitamins for energy) in order to ward off post exam illnesses. I knew a girl who used to get sick after every set of exams, year after year. Don’t let this cycle of stress followed by sickness strike you!
Take care of you
You need to relax as much as you can right now. That includes your overstressed muscles. If you find yourself experiencing stiffness or pain in your neck, upper or lower back, try one of these two things for relief. Relax in a soothing bath (try some aromatherapy candles to accompany your bath- lavender and vanilla are both very calming). Epsom salts help ease tension on the body as well and are a good addition to any bath. Another idea is to get a massage. Both are highly recommended. If a professional massage is too much for your strapped budget, see if your roommate has magic fingers (and you can return the favor for him/her when necessary).
Talk out loud
Not a diehard exam stress buster but a way to feel more confident about your subject material is to read your work out loud. It may sound strange but certain work can be absorbed better if you hear it spoken aloud. I employed this method throughout my high school and college days and recommend it to everyone. I don’t believe I would have gotten the high marks I had if I hadn’t used my voice to help me learn and retain the work at hand. Try it. It might seem awkward or forced at first but it really does work. Best to do it when you are alone however, as others might not understand and think you’re a bit kooky!
Even when the pressure is on to ace your exams take time for yourself and lighten up a bit. Then go in that exam room and make it happen! Glowing grades here you come!