Let's be real, exams are stressful. We invest so much energy in studying for exams, right? It's like we're preparing for a marathon. But then we forget that our brains need a break as well. The goal is to create balance, not to jam as much information as possible. What if we could actually enhance our study game by taking care of our mental health? There are many strategies to promote a sense of calm, boost attention and concentration, and sharpen essential skills. Most of them activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone). For students preparing for exams, this can result in a clearer mind and reduced anxiety. It is also an effective tool for reducing stress and pressure, which can otherwise hinder academic performance, especially during exams.

Anchoring the mind

According to Dr. Archika Sudhanshu, spiritual and meditation guru, Meditation, with its roots in developing awareness of the present moment, provides a powerful stress-reduction tool. Key practices include breathing exercises, where focusing on the sensation of each inhale and exhale helps slow down our racing thoughts. Guided meditations, often accessed through apps or online resources, enhance mental clarity and relaxation. Additionally, incorporating mindful study breaks instead of scrolling through social media can improve focus and productivity, making meditation a valuable practice for managing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

Outdoor activities

Outdoor activities have the power to energize the soul and improve overall well-being. Gardening fosters a deep connection with nature, offering satisfaction and serving as a natural remedy for mental health. Cycling not only enhances heart health but also releases feel-good endorphins while providing a change of scenery that can uplift mood and sharpen focus. Outdoor yoga, with its combination of slow breathing and gentle movements, helps relax and loosen the body in a peaceful, natural setting. Swimming, a full-body workout, effectively melts away stress and offers a refreshing escape from the pressures of daily life.



Go for a walk

According to Rishi Ranjan, Awakening & Health, Certified Yoga Therapist, Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, “Synergizing mindfulness with outdoor activities like going for a walk creates a deeper sense of relaxation and awareness. Walking can also be a way of outdoor meditation. When practiced in a peaceful, natural setting, it amplifies the calming effects of mindfulness, making it even more rejuvenating. Similarly, mindful observation during a walk, taking the time to notice the sights, sounds, and scents of nature, helps cultivate presence. We can experience a greater sense of peace, focus, and connection with the world around us.”

It is a wonderful way to start the day with a sense of calm and clarity. Focusing on your breath helps ground your thoughts, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being. This simple yet powerful practice not only sets a positive tone for the day but also improves mental focus and emotional balance.

Nature yoga

It involves practicing gentle yoga or stretching in an outdoor setting, allowing the body and mind to connect with the natural surroundings. This practice helps release tension, improve flexibility, and create a deep sense of calm, making it an ideal way to rejuvenate before or after study sessions.

Deep breathing in nature

It is a simple yet powerful way to relax and refresh the mind. Taking a moment to sit outside and engage in deep breathing exercises helps clear mental clutter, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm. The fresh air and natural surroundings further enhance the experience, making it an effective practice for recharging both the body and mind.

In addition, these habits improve sleep, a very important consideration for learning. Good sleep comes from a relaxed mind and body — which is what we need in order to gain cognitive clarity as well as memory consolidation.

To wrap it up, academic success is not just the result of intense studying. Mindfulness and physical exercises can be integrated into a student's lifestyle, which will promote a balanced method of learning. By prioritizing one’s mental health, students are able to cope with exam challenges with more self-resilience, concentration, and eventually, fulfill their academic capability.