Exams preparation is not only about hard studying, but it is also about working with anxiety. How did I get to this conclusion? By finding myself unexpectedly right in the middle of a frustrating confusion.

As I bite into my favourite matcha brownie in Shoreditch, I suddenly get an overwhelming feeling of stress and panic. Should I be revising? Do sweets lower my ability to concentrate? Will I pass my exams?

I remember an Oxford psychology teacher telling me that the months before my exams are the most important, as they can shape or break my future.

That thought had been circling in my mind for a long time. And the event of not getting into a prestigious university led me to become really nervous and frustrated with myself. On the other hand, I kept convincing myself that it’s me whom dictates my future, not the university I go to.

My Exams Preparation Through Meditation

I guess it’s fair to say that I was confused with my thoughts and couldn’t quite figure them out. I decided it was time to consult my mom, who always seems composed and able to priorities her thoughts. She suggested I try meditation.

I quickly did my research on it and surprisingly found out that it isn’t what I thought it was. If you’re like me and assumed that meditation is for adults who like to do yoga and eat really healthy all day, then you’re wrong!

What I found was that meditation helps with focusing, remaining peaceful, and maintaining focus, which are all really important things when studying for or sitting an exam.

In short; no more stress or restlessness during exam preparation or during the actual exams. All sounded good to me, so I asked Google: How do I meditate?

This is what I did and might also work for your:

• Find a quiet place, where there are no distractions.
• Choose a comfortable position to sit in (I personally like using my meditation cushion, as it helps me keep my back straight).
• Close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing.
  Whatever thoughts might come to your mind, let them go by drawing attention back to your breathing.

I try to do this for at least 10 minutes a day or every other day, but nevertheless, like everything, the more practice the better the results.
Yes, the first time I tried meditating it wasn’t as spiritually enriching as I imagined.

But now I can definitely say that I am less stressed about exams and those 10 minutes a day are something I look forward to. And, since this is such a fulfilling practice, I’m thinking to extend it as a ritual related not only to my exams preparation but also to any other stressful moments I might have.

Spark Your Bloom Today And Everyday!