There is no doubt that the UPSC exams are one of the toughest exams held in India. It is a common notion that aspirants have to study for an excessive number of hours and completely sacrifice the pleasures of life. Most aspirants take up a life of penance once they have committed themselves to the pursuit of the coveted Civil Services. Family and friends are forgotten, and there is no room for relaxation. Does it have to be this way? Not at all, say the experts from the All India Civil Service coaching centre, Chennai. The undue stress, panic and tension do not have to be a part of the exam preparation.
Take a look at how you can handle the insurmountable pressure and maintain your mental well-being.
Exercise regularly
Preparing for the UPSC Exam is no excuse for you to become sedentary and forgo your exercises. In fact, this is the time when a regular workout will have incredible benefits for your mind and body. A simple session of yoga, a brisk walk or an hour of cardio right within the comfort of your home is more than enough to get the endorphins kicking. An energetic mind will help you prepare for the day and augment your reasoning abilities.
Get enough sleep
Your eight hours of peaceful sleep is something that you should never compromise when you are studying for the exams. There is no necessity to burn the midnight oil when you have ample time to study and revise.
Take a break
It is not a sin to break the monotony of your study schedule and spend a couple of hours to unwind and relax. Listen to music, watch TV, catch up with friends and family, have a meal with your family members, or just go out for a stroll. But remember to get back to your schedule without fail.
Avoid external stimulants
When there are numerous healthy ways to beat stress, why go for external stimulants? External stimulants can be anything, from having too much coffee or tea or smoking and drinking. None of these has a positive effect on the mind or body, and it could become a serious addiction.
Watch your diet
Quite often, IAS aspirants resort to feasting and fasting when they feel stressed out with long hours of study. Some of them may altogether avoid taking food on time, and others tend to binge on food whenever they can. What you need is a well-balanced diet taken at the right time. Avoid junk food and eating outside to keep digestive problems at bay.
A well-planned timetable is what every UPSC aspirant should have as soon as they kick start their arduous journey of exam preparation. Apart from having allotted timings for all subjects, the timetable must include time for relaxation and rejuvenation. It is also a wise decision to set the alarm to indicate a “time out” for all the activities, including studying. This will help you avoid burnout and stay focussed on your goal.
Read More : Tips For Fueling Your IAS Motivation