Exams are in full swing, and you may have noticed your mood, sleep quality and stress levels changing.   Did you know that exercise is one of the best ways to manage those stress hormones that are going a little crazy during exams? 

Step 1: Pick your favourite exercise

Your goal is to simply move.   It’s the movement that will help release endorphins which will in turn help lower your cortisol and stress levels.   It could be a walk, bike or gym session, yoga or group fitness class.  Whatever floats your boat, but just do something!

Step 2:  Allocate exercise time and stick to it. 

Seems simple enough, but often we don’t treat our exercise with as much importance as a doctor’s appointment that we can’t miss.  But think of exercise as medicine, because it is!    Even just 10mins a day will make a difference to your stress levels and keep you in a positive mindset. 

Step 3:  Activate your study breaks.

Immediately post-exercise your brain is fresh and primed to learn better!  No joke.  So, when taking your study breaks, be they micro or a bit longer, make them active!   Added bonus – head outdoors if you can for some fresh air to stretch your legs and energise your brain.  Studies have shown that being in nature can help boost mood and lower stress levels.

Good luck with the remainder of your exams and we’ll see you at the gym soon! 

Ngā mihi
Te Ratonga Hākinakina | UC Rec&Sport