Preparing for exams is always a very stressful time for students. Preparing your body and mind for the exam period can help you cope with any added stressors that life may throw at you.
Here are some tips to help you be at your optimal mental fitness for exams:
Prepare your body
The period leading up to exams can take its toll on your body
Make sure you are still exercising, moving enough, and maintaining your physical activity.
When you exercise, your body releases feel-good hormones that will help you cope better overall. A healthy body helps promote a healthy mind.
Maintain a balanced diet
Eating correctly is essential when preparing for the exam period. Plan your meals, ensure you have snacks on hand, and avoid sugar. Keeping your blood sugar levels consistent will alleviate the afternoon crash you get from overeating on refined carbs or sugars.
Drink lots of water
Two litres of water is recommended.
If you’re getting bored with the flavour add in a slice of lemon, a mint leaf, or even cucumber. Staying hydrated is good for your brain.
Stay away from energy drinks and too much caffeine
Artificial stimulants can give you an initial lift, but the crashes can be catastrophic. Overdosing on energy drinks is bad for your heart, breathing, and nervous system. So be cautious when selecting your drinks.
Get enough sleep.
When you are cramming, sleep may feel like a luxury.
But you must allow your brain to rest and reboot so it can retain information again. When you are overtired, tasks take longer to accomplish, so be sure to schedule time to relax.
We want you to succeed, and we have all the faith in the world that you can do your best and excel. If you feel like you are not coping, or need additional help, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your Faculty Student Advisor.