How to ace exam season

It's easy to melt into your desk chair and cram for hours, but it's the quickest way to become tired, achy and grouchy. Moving your body in whatever way feels best (and however you're able to) gets the blood circulating and helps your brain to function better.  

I regularly make time for exercise or movement in my schedule. I love running, so I always make time for it without paying it much thought, but even if I don't feel like going out, I know I will feel amazing after getting those miles in. It makes me feel completely refreshed and ready to take on the day, so I do it in the morning.  

I can recommend trying to find an activity that works for you. Don't pick something you don't enjoy. Then take 30 minutes out of your day and dedicate it to that activity. It's not a demanding commitment to make, and I've found it to be incredibly beneficial. If you feel like skipping it, remember that you'll thank yourself later if you stick to it. 

Hiding away to revise for hours on my own can backfire and put me in a bad mental state. I try to make time to get together with friends to release some of the stress and tension that builds up during cramming sessions.  

I like to grab a coffee with a friend every few days so we can talk about how we're feeling. Communicating your feelings and fears is crucial. It often makes me feel so much better when I say them out loud and I can manage them better. Plus, speaking with friends gives us an objective perspective to help us see more clearly.  

Staying in touch with friends and family reminds me that I'm not alone and that whatever happens, someone will still be there for me. Having a strong support system is important and we should never neglect that for our studies. 

Although I don't usually reach for processed and unhealthy food, I sometimes fall into a pattern of overeating during exam season. I'm stressed and anticipating my performance, so it's an easy escape but not a constructive solution. I also know people who hardly eat at all during exams, but exam time is when it's most important to eat lots of fresh food.  

Think of it as fuel to operate at your best. Getting vitamins and nutrients into your system and keeping your blood levels steady is key to feeling well and thinking clearly.  

Remember that coffee is not food! There is nothing wrong with an occasional cup of coffee to increase alertness but drink it in moderation and try not to rely on it for energy as you'll just end up feeling wired but not productive.  

Lastly, believe that you can achieve the things you want to. Don't get discouraged when you see the deadlines approaching. Life does not end when exams start and keeping these healthy habits while you're studying can help exam season to flow more smoothly.  

While exams are important, so is our health and wellbeing and that continues to be a priority throughout life, no matter how stressful things get. Remember, you can do this.