Preparing for Your Exams
Elize Thirion, Specialist Wellness Counsellor, has written a blog for us on the importance of preparing for your exams.
It is that time of the year when students become anxious as a result of all the information that needs to be processed and stored to be recalled when needed for their exams.
Many students tend to have more fun during the school year, than shouldering the important work of studying, therefore might experience anxiety because of the looming tests.
There is still time to prepare. Let’s focus on brain health as part of your preparations:
The Gut/Brain-axis(GBA)
This is where biochemical signaling takes place between the gut and the brain. Where they communicate to work together.
Research shows that the gut can actually be called the second brain.
It regulates: Your health and mood
Your health and stress response
Your immune health (more important as a result
of the pandemic)
Your response to life in general.
- There is a saying: Garbage in; garbage out.
- Avoid the extra sugar
- Energy drinks
- Refined foods
Stock up on:
- Blueberries: the number one food to include because of the anti-oxidant content for healthy memory and recalling.
- Avocados: healthy fat, containing monounsaturated fat, which contributes to healthy blood flow to the brain.
- Nuts: Walnuts and almonds are superfoods that fight against tiredness and mood disorders.
- Dark Chocolate: Not milk chocolate! The benefits come from the ability to improve the blood flow to the brain. The brain always needs a lot of energy, therefore better blood flow is beneficial.
- Green tea: increases activity in the pre-frontal cortex of the brain. This is the part of the brain associated with problem-solving skills.
Exercise
Exercise is always beneficial to the brain and body. If you are not used to exercising, now is the time to start with regular light exercise to cause better blood flow, rich in oxygen and nutrients to your brain.
Good luck with your preparations!
Elize Thirion
Specialist Wellness Counsellor
