Now tutoring virtually and in Courtenay, BC (I'M CURRENTLY NOT TAKING NEW STUDENTS)
Some students struggle with non-academic issues that affected their ability to learn, hence our sessions are less effective. Here are some foundations of being in a good state for learning that I have identified:
1) Get enough sleep
a) Sleep has a huge impact on effective IQ! Esp. in math!
b) I have found the following tips and sleep diary useful.
2) Get moderate exercise for at least half an hour at least three times a week
a) Exercise is very good for your brain, your physical health, and your mental health! It stimulates the release of lots of neurotransmitters that aid in learning. Also, it increases the number of mitochondria in your brain, giving your brain more energy and helping it function better. Here's a great video on its health benefits!
3) Manage persistent stress, anxiety, and disruptive thoughts.
a) These (and any strong emotion) create a neural static that interferes with the proper functioning of your pre-frontal cortex, making thinking and learning more difficult.
b) I recommend a psychologist as the first strategy for dealing with this if you have lots of money.
c) I have successfully struggled with stress, anxiety, disruptive thoughts, and sleep issues myself, and am happy to share experience and resources, such as journalling, affordable psychologist options, the work, medication, articles on how to make the changes you want in your life, etc.