Have you ever prepared for an exam so diligently that you walk into the testing room and lose all focus? You definitely felt anxious before exams, but don’t worry—this is normal for students, and there are ways to deal with it! Exam anxiety is caused by placing too much pressure and expectation on oneself. While having expectations is generally good, they can occasionally feel stifling. So here are 8 ways to unwind for students who are constantly worried about exams!
8 Stress Reduction Methods for Exam Anxiety
1. Concentrate on breathing
Keeping your attention on your breathing is one of the most effective relaxing methods for exam anxiety. When you have exam anxiety, you could feel out of breath and your heart may beat quickly and irregularly. You can reduce your anxiety by focusing on your breathing for two to three minutes. Your heart rate may be controlled once more and you can concentrate on one thing by being deliberate with your breathing. Keep in mind that exams are marathons, not sprints, so take your time and do not rush
2 – Interrupt your study sessions with brief breaks.
As you rush to finish your revision during the hectic exam period, it’s easy to be sucked into studying for long periods of time without realising it. If you are aware of your propensity to procrastinate, you should set a timer and allow yourself a break after one to two hours of studying. Alternately, you can use the Pomodoro study method.
3 – Work out.
Exercise increases endorphin production, making you feel happy. They provide you with a good source of chemical reactions that will improve your mood and give you the drive to continue. Try working up a sweat if you don’t believe it! Try running, yoga, or a HIIT workout; you probably will feel better for having moved your body and taken a break from studying.
4 – Take breaks and engage in enjoyable activities
The only difference between this break and point 2 is its length. Spend some time each day doing something you like or that makes you feel comfortable. Maybe you like to read a book, watch a movie, or listen to music to relax. Do those things, but don’t think about studying while you’re doing them. Although I think some of us might feel even more pressured while engaging in these activities, you might want to consider taking brief breaks. Shorter breaks may help you feel less overwhelmed while still allowing you to recharge. Follow your comfort and relaxation cues. It’s crucial to constantly remind oneself that taking a break is OK.
5 – Watch relaxation videos
Spend 10 to 15 minutes each morning meditating and listening to relaxing music. You have two options: sit on the floor or lie down on your bed, close your eyes, and clear your mind. Another smart move is to go for a morning stroll in the park where you can be surrounded by greenery and wildlife. Starting your day off well can be accomplished by placing oneself in a comfortable setting in the morning.
7 – Massage therapy
Plant extracts are used in aromatherapy to enhance health and wellbeing. It is sometimes referred to as essential oil therapy. Perhaps you could practice aromatherapy and use essential oils to enhance your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Both physical and emotional health may be improved. Aromatherapy can be used whilst studying or before you start your day, depending on what makes you feel more relaxed. Try stretching as an alternative to inhaling deeply. Pay attention to your muscles as you stretch. Put your attention on stretching and relaxing your muscles. It can be all you require to feel relaxed and renewed.
8. Reward yourself.
After working so hard to prepare for finals, you should undoubtedly treat yourself. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, and treat yourself to a day off or break. Whether or not you feel secure when you leave the exam room, you should be pleased of yourself for giving it your all. If you’re not feeling your best, remember that there are still opportunities for you to change for the better and restore your reputation.
In summary, exam anxiety can be harmful because it has an impact on student’s mental health. Try one of these 8 methods for relaxing! Feel free to contact dependable adults if you believe you cannot handle the stress and worry. Definitely not by yourself in this.