It’s not unusual to feel nervous before and after a big test. Too much stress, however, can affect your academic performance and even your health. Whether you’re studying for the SAT or waiting on the results of a midterm, it’s important to take care of yourself. The following guide provides a few steps you can take to calm your nerves before and after your test.

Before the Test:

Meditate or Exercise

Concern about your performance on an upcoming test can make you antsy. Take a break and work off that excess energy with a jog, or play sports with friends. If you’d prefer a more relaxing way of clearing your mind, try meditation. Sit somewhere comfortable, take deep breaths, and let your mind drift free from all worries.

Pet Some Dogs

Studies show that even being in the presence of pets can greatly improve your mental state. Relieve pent-up stress by playing with your pet, or simply settle on the couch for some cuddles. For those who don’t have pets, animal shelters are always accepting volunteers.

Get a Full Night’s Sleep

Parents and teachers are always emphasizing the role sleep plays in academics, and they’re right. Children should be getting 8 to 11 hours of sleep every night. A full night of sleep results in more energy, better concentration, and a higher chance of retaining the information you studied.

After the Test:

Treat Yourself

Now that the study sessions are over now, it’s time to ease into post-test relaxation mode. Reward yourself for all of that hard work. Go on a shopping trip, buy that video game you’ve been eyeing, or splurge on your favorite dessert. You deserve it!

Eat Out With Friends

Celebrate a job well-done by going out to eat with friends. There’s no better ending to a big test or exam week than a fun hangout, and you probably all need the break. Give yourselves the opportunity to catch up with one another over a nice meal.

Make Yourself Laugh

Your stress is starting to die down, but you may still be a little nervous about getting your scores back. For the time being, shift your mind away from academics with some comedy. Watch a funny movie, see a comedian with friends, or look up silly videos online. Whatever gets you laughing will help—the act of laughter releases endorphins that will leave you feeling fantastic.

If you want help building proper study skills, the educators at Peach State Tutoring & Test Prep can offer the guidance you need. Serving the Roswell, Johns Creek, Milton, Cumming, Duluth, Norcross, Suwanee, and Alpharetta, GA, areas, they offer academic tutoring in any subject you or your child is struggling with, as well as ACT and SAT prep. Their college-educated tutors provide customized lesson plans to boost each student’s confidence and academic performance. For those deciding between taking the ACT or SAT, they offer a diagnostic test to determine which would earn you the higher score. To learn more, call (678) 824-6890 or send them a message online.