Blow away exam blues

Stay fit with these Yoga tips, approach your exams in an adventurous way...:

by Nisha Mahajan

As the exam draw near, there are sleepless nights, lack of appetite, cold hands, and perspiration. Can exam - time actually be an adventure?

Remember, certain stresses can be a trigger, but too much anxiety may impede you. Some like to study during the day, others at night. Each to his own! Work out a balance between study, nutrition and recreation.

Recreation

The duration of study-slots obviously will very but one thing is common: the moment you feel saturated, change the activity. Recreation-walk, music, light reading, exercise, yoga-will rejuvenate you and you can go back to your studies with a fresh mind!

Food, again, plays a significant role in determining energy levels. A balanced diet, rich in natural content, contributes to sustained stamina. Add fresh salads and fruits to your regular meals. Chuck out or at least reduce junk food and aerated drinks.

Sit with your back straight, close your eyes and watch your breath. Equalise inhalation and exhalation, the breathing gentle and smooth. (Excellent for quietening the mind and developing concentration.)

Equalise inhalation and exhalation (three seconds each, at first.) Ten to 14 rounds each in the morning and evening will do. after a week, increase to four seconds one way.

Add one second each week until you reach a count of ten seconds one way. Add one second each week until you reach a count of 10 seconds. By now, your stamina and capacity to work will show marked improvement.

Lie on your back with your arms and legs stretched out comfortably. Shut your eyes and leave your body loose. With every exhalation the body appears to sink into the ground. Experience this each time you exhale. Ten minutes will refresh you.

Relax

For those who bend over books for long periods, bend your neck and shoulders backward once every half hour! For those who have difficulty in getting to sleep, try breath-equalisation and relaxation at bed-time! For those who appetite runs riot, exercise, breath-regulation and relaxation will help.