My Science School

A lot of students in Classes X and XII feel they are under pressure from parents with regard to studies. Many parents stop their children’s sports activity or other classes as they feel children have to concentrate only on studies. In such a scenario, what should parents and children do?

Many such students are under severe pressure from not just parents, but also school and peer groups. In daily life, we use the term stress to describe negative situations. But not all stress is bad. Stress is of two types – eustress or positive stress motivates and improves performance while distress or negative stress leads to anxiety, fear, poor performance, disappointment and other physical and mental health problems. Many students undergo distress when they are in Class X or XII as they have to face Board examinations. A lot of stress is caused also due to parents’ anxiety and expectations. Instead of creating distress of children, it is better to help them prepare and plan for their future. A clear and healthy discussion between parents and children is necessary to help students be confident and stress-free.

A FEW HANDY TIPS FOR STUDENTS

• Physical fitness: A considerable amount of physical activity is always essential to keep your body and mind active. Even when you get into higher classes, some form of physical activity – a sport, jogging etc. – is necessary, and it is not good to stop these activities. Pick a hobby to relax and recharge. Yoga will help you stay calm and focussed.


• Plan ahead: A simple strategy of planning and executing activities will help you avoid last-minute anxiety.


• Avoid procrastination: Postponing your work will lead to more anxiety, and is not a solution to your problem. Identify the reasons for your delay and work on them.


• Reduce distractions: Distractions from mobile phones, television, videogames or friends have to be reduced because you tend to lose focus and will regret it later.


• Set realistic goals: Goal-setting will help you be motivated and work better. You will get a direction for yourself.


• Analyse your progress: Never compare yourself with others. Set targets for yourself and look into your performance. Appreciate yourself when you do well, and analyse how you can perform better.


• Stay focussed and work hard: Steady preparation before the examinations gives one immense self-confidence. Positive feelings and preparedness keep worry and negative thoughts at bay.


• Healthy eating and good sleep: A healthy diet and good sleep for at least six to seven continuous hours a day – particularly during examination days – are essential to keep your mind and body healthy.

 

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I suddenly wake up from my sleep in the middle of the night and think about my upcoming examinations. Although I am preparing quite well, I am not able to sleep properly. Please help me with tips.

All of us have faced this. Proper sleep is very important before examinations. Stay calm and revise your portions. Have an early dinner filled with carbs and proteins. Stay away from phones and other gadgets. Listen to relaxing music. Go for a short walk and do some breathing exercises. Do not think about the results. Stay in the present. Before you go to sleep, do not talk to friends who are going to face examinations. Stop comparing your performance with others. Stay away from those who make you panic. Self-affirming statements such as “I will sleep well” or “Have a good sleep” will have a positive effect on you. Also, a warm water bath and a mildly aromatic room can help you sleep well.

 

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I am a girl in Class IX. I have kind of liked this boy from the beginning of the school year. I want to tell him how I feel about him but I get nervous and end up not saying anything. I am probably going to leave this year and vacate to a new place. But before that I want to talk to him. I know I am not supposed to have feelings at such a young age but should that really stop me ? Please help me.

Having a crush on someone during your adolescence is very natural. Such attractions are due to a lot of physiological changes. Having an open conversation is okay as long as the boy is able to understand it with the right perspective. Rather than getting confused about it, decide if you are okay with expressing your feelings to him. Of course, you must be prepared to accept that such feelings may not last long and so it is not necessary to suppress them. Talk to the boy if you want to express your feelings while giving yourself time to be able to be able to accept the change of place. You can always continue your friendship in a healthy manner if the boy also has a healthy attitude towards the relationship.

 

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I’m in Class X. I have high aspirations for my Board examinations. But I have a problem – I’m plump and it makes me feel odd among friends who are all fit. I want to lose weight, and I have taken many steps for it. I have also started cycling long distances. But it makes me tired, and I sleep early at night, which eats into my study hours. What do I do? Please help.

It’s good to take care of your physical well-being. It is not healthy reduce weight in just a few days. A healthy strategy must be planned to help you out. Of course, it is natural to feel odd among friends. I appreciate your interest and steps taken to change. You are in Class X and you must focus on your fast-approaching Board examinations. Any drastic change in your routine will affect your health. Before any steps are initiated to reduce weight, consult a physician to check for medical conditions and take proper interventions. Exercise and proper diet too are essential. A proper fitness specialist and a nutritionist will be able to guide you. But, you could do these after your Boards. Meanwhile, avoid unhealthy and sugary foods, and increase the intake of proteins and greens to help you stay fresh and active. Drink lots of water and eat almonds and walnuts regularly. Prioritise your goals – your examinations are a priority now. Love your body and do not give up. Don’t make harsh statements about yourself and your body. Healthy eating, proper sleep and exercise are important now. Practise breathing exercises too. Yoga can help you keep your body fit. Cycling is a good exercise but do not overdo it that you get exhausted. Start small and be consistent.

 

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