Here’s how to beat stress, fatigue during exams and do well

The key to doing well in examinations is to be well prepared and to not let your stress and anxiety affect your performance and mental peace. We bring you some tips to beat exam stress.

It is normal to experience stress during exams, but essential not to let it affect your performance and mental peace. The key to being in control is being well prepared. Start preparation early and meditate during breaks as it helps in relaxing and calming your mind.

Keep these tips in mind to overcome exam fear and anxiety, advises homeopathy physician Pankaj Aggarwal from Agarwal Homeo Clinic.

Preparation is key

Draw up a a realistic, achievable timetable and stick to it. (Shutterstock)

The most important thing is to be well prepared. Start preparation early. Plan a realistic, achievable timetable well in advance to cover portions of your syllabi every day instead of having to study too much close to the exams. Reward yourself when you stick to it.

Meditate to calm your mind

Meditation is a great stress buster. Doing it daily can do wonders. Meditation helps you relax and focus. It also helps identify and avoid negative thoughts from your mind. Sit cross-legged with your palms on your knees and practise deep breathing. Visualise yourself in a happy place of your choice – a meadow full of flowers or a sunny beach – or imagine yourself achieving your goals. Do this for 10 to 15 minutes every day – preferably in the morning – or whenever you feel stressed or tired. It will also improve your memory, concentration power and make you feel positive.

Meditation helps you relax and focus. (Shutterstock)

Eat well, rest well and sleep well

Do not study through night before an examination as your brain needs to rest to retain information. A six-hour sleep is essential before an exam. Be mindful of what you eat. Include green vegetables and dry fruits in your diet.

Identify symptoms of stress

If you experience any of these symptoms, you are suffering from stress:

* If you are falling sick very often without any reason.

* If you constantly keep worrying about your results.

* If you feel afraid when someone talks about your future.

Do not ignore these and talk to someone about it – be it a friend, a family member or the school counsellor.

Be mindful of what you eat. Eat healthy. (Shutterstock)

Listen to music

Listening to music can create a positive and productive environment by elevating your mood and encouraging you to study more effectively and for longer.

Avoid stimulants

It is a myth that caffeine, nicotine or any other substance can help improve concentration. On the contrary, they are likely to increase your anxiety levels and make you feel more stressed. These things never help in making you feel relaxed. Avoid them specially during exams.

Avoid caffeine, nicotine during exams.

– With HT inputs.

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