Tips to avoid exams anxiety and stay cool...

Avoid that exam stress!

School and college examinations have started. Here are tips to avoid anxiety and stay cool...

It's examination time again. The dates for SSC and HSC exams have been announced and students and parents are prepared to face them. But in a scenario where students are resorting to suicide on reasons like failing in a single subject, the idea of coping with pressure is imperative. For so many students, when it comes to exam time, the anxiety levels start rising. Fear of failure can turn out to be a self-fulfilling prophecy as panic sets in, concentration drops and memory is adversely affected. While we all agree that doing well in your examinations is important, it's not the end all of things. In fact, counselors say higher anxiety usually leads to lower scores and advise one to stay calm.
Experts affirm that parents and teachers do often put the wrong kind of pressure on teenagers to succeed, therefore it is very important for parents to go to child counselors so that they understand the mental aptitude of their child. This will not only help their children realize their goals but they will work towards it positively.
Dr Varkha Chulani who specializes in child psychology gives valuable tips which will help students as well as parents beat exam stress.

No room for panic
If you feel like you're losing your nerve, remember to do regular deep breathing exercises. Try closing your eyes, relax and breathe deeply. Imagine your ideal, safe and relaxing place. In your mind, go there for approximately 30 seconds. Go to this relaxation sanctuary every time you feel stressed.

Eat right
Eat fruits and nuts. They give carbohydrates which means energy that gets depleted when you are stressed out. One must not attempt an examination on an empty stomach and avoid junk food and beverages as they are superficial up-lifters.

Have a routine
Getting into good habits during exam time can minimise stress. For instance, have your regular mealtimes away from your books, or have a relaxing bath every evening after a long period of studying.

Get Active
Stress builds up cortisol, which clogs you up. Exercise physically neutralizes stress hormones. Make sure to set aside some time to do some physical activity. Exercises like swimming and kick-boxing are a good way to combat stress.
Sleep right
Lack of sleep affects your concentration and mental agility. You should make sure you sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours a night!

Be realistic
Don't over-commit yourself to things not related to your studies.