Midterm Time

For many students, this time of year is crunch time for midterms. To get through this time as relaxed as possible, I gathered some tips and suggestions from my own experience as a student which I still am...

Time Management

• Study a little bit on a daily basis instead of cramming the material overnight. 
• Read the material and write it on note cards. The combination of reading, especially reading out loud so that you hear the spoken words, and the mechanics of writing will enhance your ability to remember what you studied. 
• Repeat the material as it is the repetition that makes the brain remember. 
• Start researching for your paper ahead of time so that you only have to write the paper but don't wait to write the paper until the night before it is due. 
• Set aside a specific time per day and keep to that schedule. The routine will help you reduce the stress level that you will automatically accumulate the closer you get to the exam or due date. If you are procrastinating like me, this will actually help you. 

Nutrition

• While junk food is so readily available and we even crave it when we are in stressful situations, try to eat healthy. Instead of potato chips, eat a handful of walnuts. 
• Try to nourish yourself with fresh vegetables and fruits. If the carrot sticks are not tasty enough, dip them in humus or lemon juice. I am more than aware that vegetables may taste a bit bland but herbs and spices can really enhance their flavor. I love roasted zucchini, squash, asparagus, portabella mushrooms, onions, and sliced garlic that I spread out on a baking sheet, sprinkle with a little salt and pepper, drizzle with a little olive oil, and bake for about 10 minutes in the oven by 400 degrees. Sprinkle with a little lemon juice and grated parmesan cheese. Hm, so delicious and nourishing. The recipe can serve as dinner or as side dish. If you like something of more substance, mix the vegetables over pasta or rice. Add a piece of chicken or fish and you have a full meal.
  

Aromatherapy
Diffuse essential oils to stimulate your learning process and boost brain power.

• Bergamot is uplifting and relaxing. It enhances self-confidence. In case you have to give a presentation just dap a drop behind your ears or on your wrists before you go into class. (Note: test for allergies and photosensitivity prior to using).
• Frankincense helps to focus the mind and overcome stress and despair
• Lavender is calming and relaxing. Great to use for anxiety.
  
• Peppermint is great to use while studying. Dr. William N. Dember of the University of Cincinnati studied peppermint's ability to improve concentration and mental sharpness.
• Brain Power™ gives your brain a boost with essential oils that are high in sesquiterpenes. Use it to clarify thought and develop greater focus.  This is a blend from sandalwood, cedarwood, melissa, frankincense, blue cypress, lavender, and helichrysum essential oils. 

If you use an essential oil while studying at home, try to sniff on the same oil prior to your exam and even during your exam. The scent may help you remember what you studied.

How to use Essential Oils?
Diffuse essential oils using a device that disperses the oil into the air in a micro-fine vapor. There are many different diffusers on the market but if you want something stylish, check out the Home Diffuser by Young Living. The diffuser spreads the aromatic benefits of essential oils through the air without damaging their important constituents.

Exercise
Exercise helps get oxygen to your brain which in turn will help you focus and retain the information you learned.

Rest & Relaxation

• Get enough rest. Especially the night before your exam! I know, I know... clubbing and hanging out with your friends, you say, relieves your stress. Well, if it worked for you in the past, that's great but if it didn't (and it won't when you get older) you may want to get some rest before heading for the exam.
• Relax your mind in between studying with exercise, yoga, tai chi, reading a book, listening to music, dancing, etc. 
• And last but not least, stay calm, breathe, meditate...

All the above mentioned tips and hints helped me get through school and especially exam time. Good Luck!