By Taylor Boggs ’16, Sports Editor

1. Exercise. Exercise is a great way to clear your mind and it is a great stress reliever because of all of the endorphins it releases! It doesn’t have to be a jog, it could be a walk, a bicycle ride, or swimming—anything to get you moving. Not only does it distract you for a while, it improves your mood and it helps your brain process more

information when you return to your studies.

2. Yoga or Meditation. These can help with stress because it promotes relaxation which is the natural opposite of stress. Yoga and relaxation both benefit three aspects of ourselves that are often affected when we are stressed: our body,

mind, and breathing. It can also enhance your mood and overall sense of well-being.

3. Make a study schedule and stick to it. While seeing the list of everything may appear even more stressful, it is actually very helpful. If you plan your time well and stick to that schedule you will be able to break up appropriate slots to study for each exam and designate when you can take breaks. It also helps to write down exactly what you want to accomplish during that time such as “Look up all of the definitions for the vocab that is going to appear on the English exam”. By doing this you are more likely to accomplish everything that you want to.

4. Allow yourself breaks. If you don’t allow yourself breaks and you just cram at the last minute, you are less likely to remember what you are studying. Like the old adage, it goes in one ear and out the other. By getting your stuff together early and allowing yourself to take breaks, it gives your brain time to process and store the information you are receiving.

5. Sleep at least 8 hours a night and eat well. I know you are used

to hearing these two, but a good night’s rest and eating healthily helps you focus and keeps you feeling good. Eating healthily will make you feel better, lessen your stress, and keep your stomach feeling fuller longer so that you can concentrate. And getting the right amount of sleep will keep you alert and will help you think faster—it also makes you happier and more confident. Memory consolidation also occurs when you sleep, so it is better to go to bed and wake up early the next day than to stay up late at night.