Final exams are approaching, which means students across the country are at an all-time stress level. It can be easy to get caught up in the stressful nature of exams, and be tempted to solely focus on your grades. However, it is still important that we remember to take care of ourselves during this time. It may be tempting to pull all-nighters, be house-ridden, and barely eat when preparing for the end of the semester. But all of those things can actually accumulate and make you perform worse in your classes. Although grades seem like a top priority, it is extremely important to put your mental and physical health first. I’ve compiled a list of my favourite tips in order to keep your sanity during this exam season.
1. Get out of the house.
Although it is tempting to only leave the comfort of your home when you need to write an exam or hand in an assignment, it is important that you aren’t completely bedridden during exam season. Even if it is as simple as choosing a different study spot, it is important to switch things up. This could be going to a coffee shop to do some review, or even taking the afternoon to visit a local museum. By giving yourself a break, it encourages not getting stuck in a rut.
2. You can sleep when you’re dead now!
I cannot stress this enough. You. Need. SLEEP. Not only is getting 6-8 hours of sleep a night required for optimal health, it also aids in memorization and higher brain function. It is extremely tempting to pull an all nighter in order to retain as much information as possible, but that can actually end up doing more harm than good. I find I can cram information the best a night before an exam, when I do a bit the night before and go to bed early, and then wake up earlier and review what you have been studying. When you pull an all nighter, you just end up being even more tired and not able to remember as much.
3. Get up & move.
It is really important when you are sitting at a desk at hours on end, to get up and get your body moving. Physical exercise is actually proven to enhance brain function, plus it’s a great stress reliever! Whether it’s hitting the gym for an hour, or going for a 20 minute walk – anything helps!
4. Fuel your body.
It can be easy to completely forget about cooking healthy food when you are cramming for an exam, and simply pop some ramen noodles in the microwave. However, it is crucial that you are fueling your body with the nutrients you need in order to feel and do your best. You don’t need to cook an elaborate 2-hour recipe, but rather just choose healthier alternatives that give you the nutrients you need. Some quick and easy meals can be: oatmeal, a healthy sandwich, and soup. It’s also always a good idea to drink as much water as you can, and pack healthy snacks for when you’re on the grind!
5. It’s ok to take a break.
As I said before in my point about leaving the house, it’s always a good idea to take a break from the studying. Even though you should be getting out of the house, taking a break doesn’t necessarily require you leaving the house. Studies show that it is best to study in 20-30 minute increments, and take short breaks in between. You could fill in these breaks by taking a relaxing bath, doing your nails, or really anything you think will help you to relieve some stress! I personally love cranking up some good tunes in my room, and having a 10 minute dance party during my breaks. I know it sounds lame, but it honestly really helps!
Those were my 5 top tips of what I personally do to stay sane during finals, and hopefully you find something that works for you! Remember that your health is so much more important than grades, and taking care of yourself is an important key in doing well in school! Good luck, and happy studying!