Secret Tips to Boost Energy During Exam Season

Being a student during exam season is not easy. And, naturally your energy levels are sure to take a bit of a hammering when you factor in all the extra brain power you are using. 

Thankfully, with a few easy wellbeing hacks, you can ensure your energy levels remain calm and steady throughout. And, we’re here to share some with you.

Smart sleep hacks

I think by now we’ve all heard about the importance of good sleep for memory, good mental health and focus. However, as a Swansea student, factoring in the late-night study culture and constant distractions, this doesn’t always sit hand in hand with an early night! Exam season is a little different though, so it’s time to set up some good, healthy sleep habits so that you’re allowing your body and brain to rest and recover daily. 

Interested to know what the ideal amount of sleep actually is? Well according to an Exam Sleep Challenge set up in 2018 by scientists, 8 seems to be the magic number! Don’t stress yourself out more by thinking you have to stick to this amount religiously, but using it as a guide time is good to keep in mind. 

To ensure you get a proper, restful sleep, stop studying at least one hour before you hit the sheets, and avoid your phone or any late-night screen overload too. Easier said than done, we know. But try your best. 

Feeling tired mid-afternoon? Take a power nap. The Sleep Doctor recommends 10-20 minutes max to improve performance post-nap.   

Food to fuel your brain

Sugary snacks might look and smell delicious, and they may even give you a quick energy boost, but they often lead to energy crashes later, which will make it harder to focus and interrupt your study rhythm. 

Instead, try simple, budget-friendly snacks that keep your energy steady. A handful of walnuts, a banana, or a chicken wrap are all library snacks that will actually help sustain your energy levels until you get home for dinner. 

And don’t forget hydration. Drinking enough water plays such a huge role in keeping your brain sharp and alert. Fill up your water bottle before you leave your apartment and aim for 1 - 2 litres each day.

Caffeine strategy

Love coffee? Caffeine can actually be a helpful boost when used wisely, but it needs to be strategic if you want to reap the benefits and avoid the negatives! Too much caffeine or a poorly timed intake can lead to jitters, a racing heart, anxiety, and disrupted sleep. And these are not things you want to experience mid exam season.. 

It’s always most effective to consume your caffeine earlier in the day or with food, and if you need another, consider smaller doses or alternatives like herbal tea for a gentler lift. Another simple rule - water before coffee every morning without fail!

Movement is an instant energy boost

Moving your body increases blood flow to the brain and releases feel-good chemicals that help you stay motivated. So, it’s one of the quickest and cheapest ways to improve focus and boost your energy levels. Even with your busy study schedule, small bursts of movement can make a really big difference. 

Take a short fifteen minute power walk to reset your mind or do a quick workout between study blocks to re-energize yourself and stay sharp.

Stretching at your desk helps if you’re feeling tense or stiff, and be aware of your posture as you study - sitting tall with your shoulders relaxed and screen at eye level is the optimum seated position.

Study smarter, not harder

Energy isn’t just physical, it’s mental too. And how you manage your study schedule can make a big difference to how long you stay focused and avoid energy dips. 

Techniques like the Pomodoro method are really useful to help break work into manageable chunks with regular breaks. By studying strategically instead of pushing through marathon sessions, you can stay productive, protect your energy, and avoid burnout. 

Changing study locations can also reduce study slumps. Switch up your home study desk for the library for a half day or another space where you feel calm and relaxed.

How true student accommodation in Swansea can help

Whether you opt for an apartment or studio, you’ll enjoy a luxurious en-suite double bedroom, desk, chair and great lighting - all essentials during revision and exam season. 

The well-equipped shared kitchen areas make things nice and easy when it comes to prepping healthy meals and snacks. And, our on-site gym means you can get in those energy-boosting movement sessions without having to leave the building. 

Come and find out more: true student accommodation Swansea