How PSYCH-K® Can Help With Exams
The HSC is without a doubt THE most stressful exam young people ever undertake. The pressure on them from schools, parents and themselves is fierce as they contemplate what seems to be a daunting future full of important decisions to make regarding further study, career path etc.
How Stress Contracts Your Brain (and sabotages performance)
Part of the problem in dealing with so much stress is how it affects the functioning of the brain. Our brain has 2 hemispheres which are connected by the corpus callosum, a thick bundle of nerve fibres that allow communication between both sides.
When we are experiencing stress, the corpus callosum becomes rigid and communication is hindered. Consequently, not having access to both sides of our brain inhibits our ability to recall information, make decisions and generally perform at our best.
How to Get a Whole Brain State
This is where PSYCH-K® can help through developing skills to be able to attain a “whole brain state” where both sides are communicating effectively and long term recall is easy.
There are also simple body postures that create a whole brain state enhancing learning and recall and I always encourage students to practise these prior to studying or an exam.
Simple Exercises to Reconnect both Hemispheres of the Brain
The two easy ones I like are: The Cross Crawl and The Wayne Cook posture
The Cross Crawl – this balances, harmonizes energy, improves coordination and concentration and clears thinking.
How to do it:
- While standing, seated or lying down, lift your right arm and left leg simultaneously. As you let them down, raise your left arm and right leg.
- Repeat, this time exaggerating the lift of your leg and the swing of your arm across the midline to the opposite side of your body
- If you can, twist so that your elbow touches your opposite knee.
- Continue this for at least a minute, breathing deeply
Cross Crawl Demonstration – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWCWP0yZld0
The Whole Brain Posture
How to do it:
1. While sitting, cross your ankles. (If standing, cross ankles if comfortable)
2. Extend your left arm in front of you with palms facing outward
3. Cross your right wrist over your left wrist, bring your palms together and clasp your fingers
4. Turn your hands “under and up” and rest them on your chest, beneath your chin
5. Inhale slowly through your nose, letting the breath lift your body
6. Exhale slowly through your mouth relaxing your body
7. Repeat four or five times
8. Uncross arms and legs
Hope this helps. If you need more assistance, you can book a consultation here.
