Three Changes You Can Make to Improve Your Academic Experience

It may not seem like it, but what we do and how we take care of ourselves outside of school and work can impact how we perform in those settings. Below are three self-care tips you can use to improve your academic experience and help you do better in school or in your tutoring sessions. 

Sleep More

I remember when I was in high school, I used to go to sports practices right after school, then sometimes another activity like volunteering or a club meeting, then do homework and study until midnight. I’d wake up the next day at 6:30 AM to start all over again. I’m shocked to think that I sacrificed so much sleep during that time. I made it through, but I remember countless days of dragging through classes and “studying” late but not retaining information. 

Sleep is so important, especially for our younger students, who need significantly more sleep to support their growth and development. More hours of good quality sleep will make you feel more energized, you’ll be able to retain information better, and your mood will be improved.

Some ways you can improve your sleep are to keep a regular bedtime, limit screen use before bed, and limit light and sound exposure. 

Cut Back on Processed Foods

The food you eat can directly correlate to your brain function and mood. If you’re just looking for a simple place to start, try to cut back on the amount of caffeine and soda you consume. Try to add a serving of vegetables to at least one meal a day, then increase that to two meals a day. And pay attention to when you crave that bag of chips or those vending machine candies. Are you hungry, or just tired and bored? 

Even those small shifts can start to make an impact on how you feel and perform in school, work, and your daily life.

Get Outside

We spend a lot of our time sitting inside whether it’s for work or school. Moving around outside can improve your mood, help you sleep better, and give your mind a break from sitting and thinking. Try to get outside for about 30 minutes every day. Maybe you can go on a short walk, or maybe take small breaks to stand and stretch in the fresh air.

Final Thoughts

While these are just general, small self-care recommendations that we have found to improve our own performance as tutors and teachers, we are by no means doctors or nutritionists. If you want more information or you’re trying to make larger lifestyle changes, we recommend you consult your physician!

When it comes to expert-level tutoring, music, and art lessons, Hodis Learning & Music offers the best and most affordable options! And we always want to make sure we’re encouraging success and confidence beyond the classroom, which is why we offer tips and advice like the article above. Schedule your first session today by calling us at 626-227-1149 or by submitting a form on our contact page.