Starting this preparatory path to CAT 2024 requires immense effort, and it is essential to be in good health to attain this end. However, no matter how good your study tactics and how you take good your mock exams are, your health affects how sharp you are in trapping information. Here are actionable and factual healthy lifestyle tips for CAT 2024 aspirants.
1. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is critically important for restoring brain activity and memory storage. So, you must wonder, “how much sleep do I need to perform well in CAT?” Well! It is important to note that after 7-8 hours of a good night's sleep, one is likelier to pay attention and solve problems better, qualities essential throughout the CAT test. Focus on “how to improve sleep quality for better CAT preparation”.
It is also crucial to take power nap so that you do not have to sit throughout the night waiting for it to be early morning to go to sleep and avoid getting fatigued, especially during the examination period; it is advised that a schedule should be set to help avoid getting fatigued at that juncture. Students need proper sleep that will enhance their alertness in handling stress, generally in the sections of the CAT.
2. Maintain a Balanced Diet
Like every other part of the body, the brain needs fuel, which is provided through proper nutrition. Healthy food is the kind of diet that comes from fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains, which provide energy for longer hours of studying. A list of foods, including nuts, seeds, and green leafy vegetables, has shown great potential in increasing brain power and improving memory. Do not consume junk food because it causes lethargy and hinders concentration.
Eating breakfast containing high fiber and proteins, such as oats with nuts or bread with eggs, ensures the body stays charged until lunchtime. It is also important not to drink so little that you get dehydrated, as this can cause headaches and make it difficult to concentrate.
3. Incorporate Regular Physical Activity
Unsurprisingly, exercise helps reduce stress and keeps the brain fresh and active. Staying active can help—just 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise a day through walking, cycling, or even yoga can and will enhance mood and concentration.
Contrary to what people with disabilities believe, exercising helps produce endorphins, which fight stress and anxiety; it also enhances sleep. Exercise, whether a five-minute jog before getting to work or preferred home workouts, is important to ensure the body and mind are both ready and focused during CAT preparation.
4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
CAT is a high-stakes exam preparatory period that can make us anxious about our preparation, but the solution is always to be mindful and practice meditation. Spend 10-15 minutes practicing deep breathing meditation or any other type of relaxation. These techniques relieve pressure on the brain and, hence, make it easier to respond to questions when doing practice tests and actual exams.
Headspace is one of the applications you can explore. Another app called Calm is also available. It also contributes to preparing during the preparation phase without anxiety and aids performance during D-day.
5. Breaks and Time Management
Students who extend their study sessions without provisions for breaks usually get tired most of the time and, hence, have low productivity. Use the Pomodoro technique: Study for 25-30 minutes, and then take a five-minute break like the above. For example, after four such cycles, rest should be for 15 to 20 minutes. It keeps the mind on track and saves it from fatigue after long periods of doing a particular work.
You should avoid spending your breaks sitting at the computer, so walk outside for a few minutes, stretch, or listen to soothing music. It is best not to spend breaks on broadcasting through social media since it refreshes their minds but only tires them.
6. Limit Caffeine and Screen Time
Although something like caffeine can give that quick energy spike, you are likely to have sleepless nights or even be anxious most of the time. Consuming only a moderate amount is recommended—1-2 cups of coffee or tea a day, and no energy drinks are allowed.
If you spend many hours glued to the screen, especially in the evening, you will likely develop eyestrain problems or sleeplessness. Cultivate putting down the screens at least 1/2 an hour before hitting the bed to allow the brain to rest.
7. Practice Relaxation Techniques Before the Exam
When the day for the exam comes closer, the stress level tends to rise. Practical advice and useful tips include using relaxation strategies, like progressive muscle relaxation or visualization. For instance, imagining a successful exam day is one way to foster the preparation of the mind for a calm examination day.
8. Exam Day Routine
Your health habits will dictate how well you can perform on the particular day of the examination. Make sure to rest before the exam to reduce sleepiness during the exam. Eat breakfast well, take good protein products such as eggs, or even prepare a meal using healthy fats such as avocado toast to sustain you as you take the test. Do not cram the last few nights before the exam; it creates more anxiety than is necessary.
The candidate must remain calm and composed throughout the exam. Always ensure that one is fully charged by practicing the breathing exercises before getting to the exam hall. All that is required from you is to apply yourself as you have practiced all along.
Conclusion
Taking CAT preparation along with a good health balance is a good combination. Apart from proper sleep, proper diet, exercise, and free time management for a healthy CAT preparation, along with mindfulness, you will have the best mind and body for the exam.
It might be true that the more you study, the higher your chances of passing CAT 2024, but proper care during the study period is equally important. It is high time to add these habits to your regimen to achieve the best possible results at the end of the exam period.