Blissful June, a time of excitement for school to be let out, but it can also be dreadful with the sight of finals. Just as we have hope to be free of our school obligations, those pesky tests get in the way. And there's no one who finds finals fun-stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation...yuck! But have no fear Staples high school students, I have some tips for surviving finals (yes, you can do it)!
Tip 1: Every 45 minutes of studying, take a 15 minute exercise break. As much as I know it makes more sense to just buckle down and beat your brain with information, let's get real, your brain has had it and needs a break. I reccommend taking those 15 minutes to move your body. When we exercise our brain is flooded with BDNF or Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor which is like miracle grow for our brains! BDNF allows for us to make and sustain more neural connections-perfect for someone who is trying to study.
Tip 2: When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed with anxiety or stress, bring your attention off the books and onto your breath. Inhale for 10 seconds, exhale for 10 seconds, then hold your breath for 15 seconds. Repeat this at least five times, to help calm yourself down.
Tip 3: Before you any test, visualize yourself taking the test with ease and stress-free. Even visualize the grade you want! "If you get the mind right, the body simply follows, " Roman Price of Lifepulp.com. This quote is great because if you get into the attitude of a successful test then you'll be much more likely to do your best!
For more tips to survive finals, join me at my workshops at Toquet Hall on June 11th and 13th at 5pm. We'll breathe, meditate, and smile our way to a blissful test taking season!
