How to survive FINALS MONTH
Some tips for students who have finals AND busy sports schedules
That time of year is drawing close. FINALS MONTH! And all just as you thought you’d mastered the art of being a student-athlete.
Final exam month can be hard on student-athletes in particular because of their busy schedules. Not to mention, some sports have championship seasons very close to this time, so the stakes are high for academics and performing on the field or pitch. Here is some advice that can help you to ‘keep your cool’ or at your best while you navigate exams, study sessions, training, and more!
First, and most important: Maintain Your Normal Schedule.
It may be tempting to stay up extra late to get in some bonus study time; or you might feel tummy anxiety and struggle to eat properly when there is so much to do. However, maintaining the same sleep and eating schedule is essential to helping you survive this stressful time.
Research shows that a good night's sleep and eating nutrient dense foods are linked to higher academic performance. Think about finals in the same way that you would think of a competition day: For example, you would not want to sleep less the night before competing, so you should do your best not to sleep less the night before a final exam.
What you put in is what you get out!
Fuel Your Mind with Nourishing Foods and keep hydrated. Food is the fuel that allows you to perform on competition day and in the classroom. Focus on balancing most of your meals and snacks with healthy carbs, lean protein, fruits and vegetables. Your brain relies on carbohydrates for fuel. Foods high in refined sugar, such as cookies, cakes, soda and candy, may make you feel lethargic while studying; save these fun foods for after the exam!
Staying hydrated is just as important as getting in adequate amounts of good food, both during finals and in general. Dehydration can lead to drowsiness and decreased cognitive performance and is associated with symptoms, such as low energy, dizziness, and headaches. To avoid dehydration during exam time it is important to focus on fluid intake throughout the entire day. An easy way to achieve this is to always have a water bottle around and sip throughout the day. Taking time to hydrate can provide a small break from studying or help you to refocus during an exam.
On that note: limit the caffeine (not that you should be having too much of it at your age anyway)…
While a cup of coffee or tea with breakfast can help you feel more alert, too much caffeine can cause headaches, edginess, and anxiousness. Remember to drink water while drinking caffeine and to cut it off 4-6 hours before bedtime.
And…Last but not least: Make time to take care of yourself.
Between all the craziness of practices, competitions, study sessions, and exams, it is so important to set aside time to normalise yourself again. Self-care can be in the form of meditation, reading a book you’ve been putting off, playing outside with siblings and animals, yoga, watching TV or anything that you find you love but put off too often.
Fearless student – STAY POSITIVE!!
Thousands have come before you and made it through and so will you.
Life is about to really begin!
