For those planning to apply to medical schools in Canada or the United States, you’ll most likely need to take the MCAT, or the Medical College Admission Test. The test consists of different subjects that are divided into 4 sections, with the entire exam taking almost 8 hours long.
The MCAT registration process is daunting enough, which is why it’s understandable to have the jitters as you study. After all, it’s recommended to study for 200-300 hours as preparation for the MCAT.
However, you shouldn’t only think of the MCAT practice test and the many different modules you’ll have to tackle. You still need to relax now and then to clear your head! But with all the emotions and stress running through your mind, this is easier said than done.
To help you out, here are tips to help decrease your stress while studying for MCAT.
- Engage in physical activities
Whether it’s working out, playing your favorite sports, or doing household chores, you’ll notice how you sweat off the stress and tension!
Physical activity can relieve stress and distract your mind from MCAT. Add one physical activity to your schedule, even if it’s just a few minutes long. This beats stress and improves your overall mood, getting you ready for a few hours of studying.
- Get out and think of something else
If you want to study more efficiently, you need to take time for yourself, without the MCAT in your head. This means getting out of your home and revitalize.
You don’t need to do anything grand, a few minutes of walking your dog or spending time surrounded by nature will help relax the mind. You can also opt to talk with friends or watch movies, taking a few breaks throughout the day rather than making your entire life about the MCAT.
Stress studying will only lead to breakdowns, also increasing the risk of forgetting important lessons from the pressure.
- Relax every part of you
Yoga and mindfulness meditations are very helpful, providing physiological and physical health benefits to manage stress. Focusing on your breath, and nothing more, which can relax your mind and body, weeding out all the negative energy.
You can escape the world a bit through a quick yoga session to stretch tired muscles, or even have a bubble bath. Once you’re back to studying, you’ll feel relieved and with more motivation to continue.
- Do something you love
It doesn’t matter what you love doing, whether it’s writing your feelings down, painting, reading a book, watching movies, or even baking! Take the time to do what you love when things get too intense, putting your energy and stress towards something you enjoy to relieve yourself of the negativity.
Wrapping It Up
The MCAT can really break a student with all the pressure. With the relaxation methods mentioned above, you can feel rejuvenated and more relaxed, which can help you study more. Do take that break, even if you have to force yourself out of your desk!
