Exam Stress? Marks not as expected? Worry not, You must realize that you cannot be perfect all the time. However, the good news is that you have plenty of options laid before you to choose from. It’s important to prioritize areas that need your attention. The problem comes when students fail to make a proper plan and try to study the whole syllabus right before the exam and thus are engulfed in stress. So, here are some tips and techniques for those students.
Positive self-talk
In panic or disappointment, avoid giving yourself negative messages – “I can’t do this”, “I’m going to fail” or “I’m useless”. Try to consciously replace these with positive thoughts – “This is anxiety, There must be so many possibilities”, “I will do better next time, It’s okay” or “I’m strong, I will be very good in whatever I do.”
Simplify life wherever possible. If you are taking on too much, learn to slow down. Share your problems with people close to you – One of the best ways to de-stress is to talk things through and ask for help when required.
Did you know, Research indicates that emotional tension and muscular tension are linked. If you are tense, your muscles become tense too. This leads to headaches, joint and muscle strain. You can try these options to de-stress yourself, When stress builds up in the body, the muscles grow tense, breathing becomes fast and you may even experience forms of physical discomfort such as headaches or extreme fatigue.
Take Charge Now!
Establish Healthy Eating Habits – When you consume adequate fruits, vegetables and nuts, sprouts and wholegrain products, your immunity improves.
Plan to Take a Break from Studies – Learn to switch off the exam pressure regularly even if its for 10 to 15 minutes. Make a mental list of what you’d like to do such as shut your eyes, walk in the garden, deep breathing or even listening to music.
Ensure Regular Sound Sleep – It will improve your productivity and reduce stress. Maybe you can soak your feet in warm water to relax the mind; this will also help you sleep soundly.
Lastly, Plan your Studies Properly – Start the day by making a list of what needs to be accomplished. When you rush into activity without any direction or plan, you actually end up wasting time.
- Get Organized. List everything you need to do.
- Mark ‘urgent’ for work that cannot be postponed.
- Set a time limit to work and stick to it.
- Make it a rule to finish one task before you start the next.
- Do whatever you do with complete focus and concentration.
- Have clarity of thought and work with a relaxed state of mind.
- Do not complicate your life. Simplify it wherever possible.
- Breath deep and Relax – Deep breathing relaxes the body and mind. And, for a very good reason. Oxygen is provided for efficient functioning of every body cell.