by - Diana Thenerd
For any student, exam time is the most challenging period. Stress, anxiety, fatigue and nervousness are quite common during at the time of exams. Unfortunately, there is a very little escape from this turbulent time. However, making the effort to maintain a healthy lifestyle will help you keep your stress level to a minimum and achieve your best results come exam day.
To manage your exams, you will need to eat well. Do keep in mind that what you put in it is what you get out. It’s tempting to reach for study snacks such as chips and chocolate to see you through exams, but you’ll find it much easier to concentrate if you eat nutritional meals and healthy snacks. Eat smaller frequent meals to ensure a steady stream of energy and have a calming effect on the brain. Avoid large meals. Choose adequate amount of fresh fruits and vegetables like amla, citrus fruits, tomatoes, green peppers, green leafy vegetables, kiwi, broccoli, and strawberries to ensure good vitamin C status. Eat regular, well-balanced, healthy meals. If necessary, supplement your diet with a multi-vitamin to prevent getting run down.
Exam stress is not helpful and coupled with lack of sleep and tons of junk food. Getting enough sleep is vital to feeling and performing your best, which makes a good night’s rest particularly vital around exam time. Students must follow the pattern of Study-Sleep-Revise for maximum retention and recall of data. Sleep is an active process where the brain works to heal the body by producing hormones beneficial for repair and growth. This is also the time for the brain to consolidate memories of what we studied and learned that day. You need to allow yourself, 8-9 hours’ sleep every night. This will allow your brain to fully function the next day, your concentration levels will remain high and you will have more energy throughout the day.
During the exam period, exercise helps to oxygenate the brain and release tension, helping you to keep calm, mentally relax and study more efficiently. Light physical activities could immensely boost your body and you get the enthusiasm to study with a renewed vigor. Taking on exercise could enhance your mental alertness, energy and positive. It helps you study and think clearly and efficiently. Plan your exercise during periods when you know you generally won’t study.
If you feel bogged down by the volume of study for your exam, applying the tips given above will certainly prove highly beneficial for you to stay fully charged to max the exams. So, when you are preparing for exams, instead of skipping food, sleep and exercise, make a good use of them for your advantage.
