Midterms are just around the corner, bringing a mix of anticipation and stress to all students at Algonquin. It’s common for students to feel nervous during this time, but there are simple yet effective strategies to ease the pressure. Whether you’re looking to calm your nerves or simply take a relaxing study break, here are some great strategies to help lift some of your exam season anxiety. 

#5: Eating healthy food

Food is an important aspect in everyone’s lives, and choosing nourishing foods helps to regulate your mood and stay energized throughout the whole day. While high school students might turn to caffeine and coffee for late-night study sessions, these drinks can actually heighten anxiety, especially with exams coming up. Opting for a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods provides a more stable source of energy, promoting both physical and mental well-being. Eating a rich breakfast, especially on exam days, will give your brain the fuel it needs to perform at its best, making you confident for exams. 

#4: Exercise

Whether you love to be active or prefer to stay on the couch, exercise has been proven to reduce stress and even help you remember material for exams. In addition, exercise helps relax and clear your mind, making you feel calm when you’re ready to return to studying. Anything from playing a game of basketball to taking a leisurely stroll in the park is sure to induce a sense of tranquility in both your mind and body. You don’t need to be a pro athlete; just moving your body is an effective stress reliever on its own. 

#3: Meditation

This may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but meditating works wonders in alleviating exam stress. By focusing on your breath and being present in the moment, meditation has been shown to help reduce the production of stress hormones in your brain. Deep breathing helps to promote a sense of self-awareness and a calmer headspace, taking off some of the stress of everyday life. Simple meditations, easily found on platforms such as YouTube, or your own deep-breathing exercises can be game changers when it comes to creating a calm mental space.

#2: Music

Listening to music is a fantastic and productive way to relieve stress while studying or taking breaks. Whether you prefer pop, rock or R&B, your favorite artists are sure to evoke feelings of joy and happiness during this stressful time. Listening to instrumental music while studying is also beneficial as there are no lyrics, making it easy to eliminate any potential distraction and allowing for better concentration. Furthermore, a consistent rhythm creates a more focused and relaxed environment, enhancing a calm and focused study session. 

#1: Sleep

Most teenagers do not get an adequate amount of sleep at night, making them easily frustrated and unable to concentrate for long periods of time. If you find yourself constantly getting distracted while studying, you may need to get more sleep at night. If going to bed earlier is not a sustainable option for you, it may be time to incorporate 20-30 minute ‘power naps’ into your daily routine, especially when studying for exams. Naps have been proven to enhance cognitive function, meaning it will make it much easier for you to take in the information needed and be ready to apply it when the exam day comes.