Exam Stress Reduction

In the run up to my exam with time pressures to fit in all the work as well as everyday practical matters, it was a good reminder to practice stress reduction techniques. There are loads of techniques and programmes and methods out there that claim to help during stressful times, but how does one find one that works. To go on the recomendation of a friend is a common way but then so is the top results in the Google search engine, which is often paid for by an organisation.

I had the pleasure of hearing about Jon Kabat-Zinn and the Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction programme (MBSR for short) held in Cape Town. Initially the programme seemed to cause me more stress than reducing it as I had to fit in a new daily practice of meditation and yoga as well as a weekly class. But soon the benefits became apparent. The meditation practice encourages one to pay attention to and focus on breathing, acknowledging the thoughts that prompt one to action or to judgment and to let them pass - like sitting on the bank of a river and watching the thoughts rush by - all the while being aware of the breath continuing to flow. The 8 weeks passed quickly, way too quickly in building up this new practice of living in the moment and new activity everyday of checking in on myself and my body.


It was to this practice of watching my breathing and being aware moment by moment, without judgment and having to spring into action, that I turned when I was preparing for and writing exams. I was able to remain focused and fairly calm - despite at times feeling pretty edgy and anxious. I suppose the success of this way of life will be borne out by the results of the exam. I will have to wait and see....