Beating the examination stress

Examinations are a time of anxiety and nervousness -- not only for the students but also the parents.

To increase productivity and take the exams well, it is also necessary -- besides studying hard -- to focus on eating habits, sleep patterns, mental and physical fitness.

1.Eating right

A balanced diet is important, especially during examinations. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide us with reserves of energy and increase our ability to concentrate.

A healthy diet of vegetables, fibre and fruits, keeps our mind alert. If we have heavy junk food like pizzas and burgers, it slows down.

2.Taking care of eyes

Exam time means a lot of reading, writing, stress and strain. Make sure not to overexert or strain the eyes.

Make sure there is ample light in the  study room . Reading with a night lamp should be strictly avoided.

Use a table and a chair to study and write, leaning on the table or reading in the sleeping position for a long time will strain your eyes. 

Rest your eyes after half an hour of continuous reading; blinking helps. Avoid rubbing the eyes. Splash cold water instead.

3.Sleeping well is necessary.

Staying up all night should be strictly avoided and also hit the bed immediately after studies.A few minutes are needed to get out of the 'books mode.'

A short walk, a glass of water or just glancing through magazines before going off to sleep will help de-stress.

4.Getting outdoors

Students must have at least 15 minutes of outdoor activity even during exams.It helps them exercise and relax their muscles.

5. Extracurricular activities should be encouraged.

This one is for parents : extracurricular activities of the child will provide the much needed break. A short stroll in the garden, brief play time (can be a board game too) or some television will help de-stress.

6.Not  getting obsessed

Talk about things other than examination. This will have a relaxing effect. Share some jokes, some interesting anecdotes of the day to lighten up the atmosphere at home.

7.Calming techniques

Practise deep breathing, meditation, and other relaxation exercises as part of your daily routine and encourage the child to use them during the examinations.

8.Be neat and tidy

Give a thought to your clothes, not just while going for the exam, but also during studying. Remember, neat and tidy clothes help lift spirits.

9.Humour

Laughter, as they say, is the best medicine.Any activity that lights up the child should be encouraged.

An exam should be treated like one,but not as a life changing event.It is important to remember that it's just a test...we have faced them before and we will have them in the future too.....