Crunch Time
"I'm stressed!"
That refrain is all too common as we find ourselves uttering those words when under pressure - be it preparing for the examinations or working hard to turn in those assignments and projects.
Besides managing our time well and having a working schedule to ensure that Chapter 5 isn't missed from your revisions, let us share with you what you can do to turn your stress levels down to a new low.
Exercise A run or a leisurely walk is certain to help you cope with stress. Regular exercise is said to raise the level of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain, reduce muscle tension, improve sleep and decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Spending time away from your study table will also help free your mind.
Don't go hungry You may be busy with your piles of notes, but do not neglect your growling tummy. Eating well can improve your mental performance but be sure not to cram your lunch plate. Keep your mouth busy by munching on low-sugar, low-fat starches (think dried cereals and nuts, fruits, and ooh, Kit-Kat!) every few hours.
Be a camel And keep yourself dehydrated. Mild dehydration can reduce blood flow to the brain, causing headaches and thus affecting concentration. Vary your nutrient intake by drinking water, tea, coffee, milk, smoothies and juice. Beware of caffeine though - while it improves short-term memory and speeds up reaction times, over-reliance on so-called “energy drinks” such as Red Bull may have an undesirable effect; the ingredient taurine in the drink can increase blood pressure and lower your heart rate.
Time for bed, sleepy-head Burning the midnight oil too often can increase your body's level of cortisol, a stress hormone. If you're having trouble sleeping, try burning lavender oil, drink warm milk or take a hot bath before turning in.
Order, order Cleaning and clearing the clutter from your environment can help you calm down. Be sure to clear your room and study area of clutter and you would be good to go!
And in the words of the Japanese,
ganbatte!*
*Ganbatte means go for it.
