We know that the exam period can be a stressful time, therefore it is important to make sure that you are staying well during this period and are having a good work-life balance.
#UWESaysRelax is our assessment-based campaign where we want to encourage students to take a break during the assessment period. We also want to make sure you are aware of the various services that are available to you during this stressful time of the year.
#UWESaysRelax
1. Get lost in a good book!
Getting stuck into a book, which isn't a textbook is a great form of escapism!
2. Listen to a podcast
Grounded with Louis Theroux, Chris and Rosie Ramsey’s Shagged, Married, Annoyed, Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place and My Dad Wrote a Porno are all sure to bring a smile to your face!
3. Crack out the tunes
Whether you're looking to unwind, put on a one-person show, music is a great way to have a break and some fun. This period is also a great chance to broaden your musical horizons and listen to some new genres of music! P.S Spotify does half-price accounts for students – no need to thank us.
4. Have a bath
Nothing puts the r into relaxation than a bath! Get the candles out, dig out some fancy bath salts or a bath bomb – whatever you can get your hands on and enjoy some much-deserved quiet time.
5. Bake a cake
Baking is a great way to take a break from a screen and make a tasty snack! Banana bread is a go-to starter cake.
6.Do some Yoga
The health benefits for Yoga are endless and all year round we would recommend making this a weekly staple. Check out YouTube as it's filled with great yoga channels.
Don't forget to share with us what you're up to using the hashtag #UWESaysRelax
If you are struggling or need help with anything, our Advice Centre is here.
You can apply for Personal Circumstances if you have personal difficulties which impact your ability to complete an assessment.
Have a good night sleep before the exam so that you are fresh and ready
Get a good breakfast in as this will give you energy throughout your exam
Give yourself 15 minutes before an exam to get settled and prepared
Have some water or juice with you to keep you hydrated throughout
Layer up and make sure you're not too hot or cold
When in the exam, make sure to read the question thoroughly and then re-read
There are options available to you if things are not going right with an assessment. Each option has a different process to follow so it’s important to ensure that you choose the option that is right for you, and that you follow the right process.
For further information, click here.
If you need someone to listen to you, you can call the Samaritans for free on 116 123. Their phone line is always open.
1. A varied and healthy diet
Eating fresh ingredients and lots of fruit is really important. Juices filled with vitamin C, such as orange or grapefruit juice, are said to be good for your immune system so can help with stress. When you're busy and tired it can be tempting just to grab another pizza or ready meal, but cooking from scratch saves more money and can also be another stress relief.
2. Do some exercise
Doing sport at least once a week is the best way to reduce stress. It helps your body produce endorphins, which make you feel good.
3. Meditation
It might sound simple, but sitting quietly for 10 minutes a day can really help with stress levels. If you've never tried meditation before, it's worth a go. Good breathing techniques can put you in a more relaxed state as they send oxygen surging through your bloodstream, helping to calm you down and beat the stress.
4. Take breaks regularly
Short breaks are great - try not to overdo yourself! Take a day off and schedule them into your planning!
5. Sleep (and sign off social media)
Sleep is always the best medicine and some people find that small 20-minute naps can help increase productivity. Failing to switch off from work because of your electronic gadgets will only make you even more stressed.
6. Quit smoking
Some people say they smoke to relax, but researchers on the European Board for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco suggest that nicotine suppresses the hormone serotonin, which fights stress. Another good reason to quit.
7. Try to see the positive side
Remember this is only situational and exam periods will pass. Plan, revise and get through this to the other side!
8. Laugh
They say that laughter is the best medicine, and it's really true. Watch a funny film or go out with friends for a well-deserved catch up and laugh.