What are some effective self-care tips for students during exams?

Planning ahead is indeed a powerful strategy to reduce stress and anxiety. In addition to using a calendar or planner, I recommend breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. This makes them less intimidating and easier to tackle. Also, consider building in flexibility by scheduling buffer times for unexpected events or delays. This way, you’re less likely to feel derailed by disruptions. It’s also important to include self-care in your planning—regular breaks, exercise, and downtime are crucial for maintaining your mental well-being. By organizing your time thoughtfully and allowing for both productivity and rest, you create a balanced routine that helps you stay focused, reduces stress, and increases overall effectiveness.

1. Create a Study Schedule: Break down your study material into manageable chunks and allocate specific times for each subject. You can use the "Rocks, pebbles, and sand" method to filter what are the important and/or urgent things to plan without must hesitations. 2. Set Realistic/ slightly stretched Goals: Set achievable goals for each study session to stay focused and motivated. Do make sure there's time set aside for review and reflection too.

Apart from eating well on what's already mentioned, it is important to Stay Hydrated and Drink plenty of water throughout the day. PS: I have an interesting water bottle that shows water i need to drink AM/PM. it kind of track me to stay hydrated, I have friends that even set alarm for "water parade"! Some poeple snack abit while mugging, Insteads of chips, consider healthy Snacks like nuts, yogurt, or fruit over sugary or processed foods.

Apart from what's already mentioned, best to 1. Establish a Routine: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your sleep cycle. PS, 7-8hrs of sleep is important, 11pm is an important timing that you sleep for your body to work what they should. 2. Create a Relaxing Environment and gadgets free before sleep: Ensure your sleeping area is quiet, dark, and cool. Read a book or practice relaxation techniques instead of using your phone. PS: everyone's soothing music is different, do spend some time to find yours. I promise that extra time spent is going to save you even more time in future!

During exams, self-care is crucial for students to manage stress and perform at their best. One often overlooked yet effective approach is connection with others. Encourage students to form study groups or simply talk to classmates about their concerns—this helps reduce isolation, provides emotional support, and can boost motivation. Engaging in light conversation with family or friends about non-exam topics can also offer a much-needed mental break. Additionally, remind students that connecting with teachers or mentors for clarity on tough subjects can reduce anxiety. Balancing study with social connection helps maintain both emotional well-being and academic focus during this high-pressure time.

Having fun and taking breaks from studying is crucial for maintaining mental health and cognitive function, fun reduces STRESS!!! It fact, having fun helps in studies because: 1. Cognitive Benefits: Engaging in fun activities activates different parts of the brain, promoting neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt and grow new connections. This can improve memory and problem-solving skills . 2. Breaks Improve Focus: Research indicates that taking regular breaks from work or study can enhance attention and performance. The Pomodoro Technique, which involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break, is a popular method supported by evidence. Remember, when having fun, focus on fun whole-heartedly:)

During exam period, students should avoid cramming, breakdown your content in smaller parts instead, this is more effective, and also maintain a positive mindset, this will help boost your confidence. Always tell yourself "I can do it". The "I can do it" spirit helps me beat imposter syndrome and manage exam periods efficiently. Staying organized with study plan is also important during this period.