Six Useful Bar Exam Stress Reducing Tips

Six Useful Bar Exam Stress Reducing Tips

Taking the bar exam can put a lot of stress on your mind and body. However, learning new information requires students to approach their studies with a clear, relaxed head. Here are six bar exam stress-reducing tips to help you find your zen and get ready to pass the bar exam.

Six Useful Bar Exam Stress Reducing Tips

1. Clear your Mind and Connect with Nature

Running into your studies each day without having a moment to settle in and fully arrive can be stressful. Give yourself enough time to get some fresh air and move your body. Before sitting down to bar prep class or with your books, sit outside for a few calming breaths first. Then, come back in for some yoga or journaling. Go for a run or a walk, if that is your thing. The point is to take a few moments connecting with nature and give your mind a moment wonder. As Lao Tzu said, “nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” So, it shall be with you, too.

2. Set the Mood

Whatever clothes you feel good in, make sure they are clean and ready to go! Feeling good is an essential part of reducing stress when studying for the bar exam. You may also want to light a candle, play LoFi or fireplace sounds in the background, put some essential oils on, and have your favorite snacks ready. You will also want to have snacks and beverages you enjoy at the ready. This way, every time you’re feeling discouraged or want to celebrate a correct answer, you can treat yourself to your favorite gummy bears! (You can also opt for a healthier snack too! Here are some helpful tips on what to eat while studying for the bar exam!) In general, you should ask yourself when you are most relaxed and try to recreate that environment. This is key to reducing stress when studying for the bar exam. And, who knows, perhaps ASMR is your thing after all?

3. Take Breaks

You are not a robot and you will have to take breaks. To stay relaxed and on schedule, try the Pomodoro method. This method is proven to assist test takers. Once your 25 minutes are up, you can check in with yourself by asking: what am I doing? Am I achieving what I set out to do? It is easy to fall down rabbit holes while studying for the bar exam, so it is important to check that you are actually maintaining your focus. You can also use your breaks to check in with friends and family, which keeps you in touch and grounded. The goal is to disconnect from your studies for a moment and remember that their a whole world out there, that will continue spinning just as you know it , whether you pass the bar on your first try or not. Note that in addition to taking breaks throughout the day, you should also schedule days off!

4. End the Day on a Calm Note

Once you have got in your daily studying in, try and shift gears. It can be hard to relax after such simulation but giving yourself time to wipe the slate clean for the next day is important. So, stop studying early so you can have time to relax. Take a warm bath or shower accompanied by some soothing aromatherapy scents and nature sounds. Put on your favorite pajamas and listen to a podcast or watch TV while giving yourself a foot massage. Volunteer to walk your neighbor’s dog – or perhaps your own! Listen to music, have a dance party, or paint something alongside a glass of wine. You may also want to pick up a book from the New York Times bestseller list! The point is to momentarily take your mind off the bar exam, so you are fresh and ready for the next day.

5. Schedule a Day Off

Studying for the bar exam can be a time to create and establish a self-care routine. Book a massage or pedicure. Plan for a budget friendly home-spa day. You may also want to treat yourself to brunch or dinner. Also, make a safe and socially distant visit to your local art museum or gallery – there are still some great exhibits going on, even some online! You can also plan to visit your favorite concept store once a week for a small celebratory purchase or buy those shoes you have been saving for. Whatever it is, be consistent and alert to your needs in order to avoid burnout. You deserve to feel good, especially while you are working so hard to pass the bar exam. Remember to remind yourself you are worthy by meeting your needs and treating yourself with kindness. Check out more tips on avoiding burnout while studying for the bar.

6. Engage in Positive Self Talk

It is important to affirm yourself and your ability to pass the bar exam while studying. While studying can at times be discouraging, we invite you to have fun with it and come to it lightly. Read through some positive quotes to help with studying for the bar exam.

Good luck studying and remember to take time for yourself! For more related tips, check out this post for reducing stress when studying for the bar exam.

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