7 Ways to Minimize Stress

Your surroundings will directly affect your ability the study effectively for the Bar Exam: consider that you will spend 50 or more hours per week studying for the Bar Exam. Creating an inspiring environment for well being in your Study space is crucial to effectively review for the Bar Exam.

Here are effective ways to reduce stress while studying for the Bar Exam.

1. Be in the present and study smart. It’s natural to believe that the harder and longer you study, the more you will get done. However, when you study at a slow and steady pace with full awareness of the subject in front of you, you will retain the law much easier - and feel better while doing it!
   
2. Set boundaries. It’s ok to say no!! Family and friends need to support your study schedule during this difficult journey and you need to know, it’s ok, to say no! I can’t go, do, or be whatever it is someone is asking you to do. Also, take a look at your calendar and make sure you are not over-scheduling yourself. Write in one night a week for yourself, and treat yourself to a tai chi or meditation class, a bath, or just an evening curled up with someone you love.
    
3. Remember to breathe. Most students who are under a lot of stress or tension breathe shallowly, up in the throat area. When you breathe deeply into your lungs, you are naturally bringing in more oxygen and activating energy in your body.

Try this to remember to breathe: set your intention to take 10 deep breaths once every hour. (If necessary, set a timer to help you remember.) It will only take a minute, but the rewards will be AMAZING! After completing this small exercise you will feel invigorated and better able to absorb and retain principles of law.
 

4. Bring nature inside your study space. As much as possible, let natural light and fresh air permeate your study space. Surround yourself with the inspiring colors of beautiful flowers, which have a powerful influence on a person's mind-set. A beautiful bouquet can lift a less-than-lovely mood and even eliminate stress. In fact, one study showed that people who sat next to an arrangement of colorful flowers were able to relax more during. So, go head and treat yourself  to fresh flowers in your study space and see what an uplifting feeling it will induce.
    
5. Give yourself a break. In this high-stress Exam, students often work hard rather then smarter, claiming they have too much studying to do - this will lead to serious repercussions in the future. Taking time for yourself is crucial to your ability to staying positive and staying focused.
   Try taking a 15-minute power nap!! If you only have five minutes to spare, just close your eyes. Even this brief rest can reduce stress and help you relax and open your mind to learn.
    
6. Meditation brings relaxation. Meditation gives your body a rest and produces slower brain waves that are similar to sleep, effectively combating tension. Regular practice of meditation, tai chi, or yoga can help you slow down and bring peace, not only in studying for the exam, but also in your life.
    
7. Get moving naturally!
   Skip the second cup of Joe, which stimulates your central nervous system, makes your mind race, and adds to your stress. Instead, try these simple and natural pick-me-ups:
    
   • Take a tea break. Instead of coffee, go for teas that gently boost your energy, such as ginseng, eucalyptus, or ginger.
    
   • Exercise. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park your car a few blocks away from where you're going. Not only will this perk up your energy, it will also improve study and eat lunch outdoors or just take a walk around the block. The fresh air and the break from routine will be an invigorating addition to your study time.

   • Get healthy energy with snacks. Eat a snack at mid-morning and another one at mid-afternoon consisting of nuts, seeds, fruits, or protein-rich foods like humus made from beans will help you sustain your energy and prevent low blood sugar from setting in.