Tips for SNBT Study When You’re Low on Energy
As nursing students begin their journey, they are expected to learn and remember an immense amount of information, including Nursing Fundamental, Biostatistics, Leadership and Management, Health Assessment and Health and Physical Assessment, and Pharmacology, which are all often bundled as SNBT courses and are often notoriously difficult to master. However, students often find themselves struggling with energy levels, which hinders their ability to effectively study and learn these concepts. Low energy levels can come from various factors, such as inadequate sleep, a poor diet, stress, or a lack of physical activity.
In this article, we will explore some tips and strategies that nursing students can use to improve their energy levels and make their SNBT study more productive and efficient.
Tip 1: Prioritize Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is essential for maintaining energy levels. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Nursing students can start by establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a sleep-conducive environment. A dark, quiet, and cool room can help improve sleep quality.
One way to prioritize sleep is to set aside dedicated time for sleep each day. This can be achieved by setting a specific bedtime and wake-up time and sticking to it, even on weekends. Additionally, avoiding screens for at least an hour before bedtime and engaging in relaxing activities, such as reading or meditation, can help signal to the brain that it’s time to sleep.
Aim to wake up every morning feeling rested and refreshed, and adjust your bedtime and wake-up time as necessary to achieve this. Avoid hitting the snooze button or sleeping in late, as this can disrupt your circadian rhythms and lead to fatigue.
Tip 2: Fuel Your Body with a Balanced Diet
A healthy diet is essential for maintaining energy levels. Nursing students need to fuel their body with nutrient-dense foods that will provide them with the energy they need to study and learn.
A balanced diet should include a variety of foods from each food group, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Aim to include a mix of complex carbohydrates, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa, for sustained energy.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks, which can cause an energy crash after the initial energy boost. Instead, opt for healthy snacks, such as fruits, nuts, and hummus, which can provide a sustained energy boost.
One way to plan healthy meals is to make a weekly meal plan. This can help you ensure that you’re getting the nutrients you need and saving time during the week when you’re busy studying. You can also prep your meals in advance, such as cooking a large batch of quinoa or roasting vegetables for future meals.
Tip 3: Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining energy levels. Even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least eight glasses. Aim to drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up and another before and after studying sessions.
One way to stay hydrated is to keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times. This can help you stay on track and ensure that you’re drinking enough water throughout the day.
Tip 4: Take Breaks and Move Your Body
Taking regular breaks is essential for maintaining energy levels and focus. Nursing students can use the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. This technique can help you stay focused and avoid burnout.
In addition to taking breaks, nursing students should make an effort to move their body throughout the day. Even a 10-minute walk or a few jumping jacks can help increase energy levels and reduce fatigue.
One way to make movement a priority is to schedule it into your daily routine. Aim to fit in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, into your day.
Tip 5: Practice Stress Management Techniques
Stress can significantly impact energy levels, making it challenging to study and learn.
Nursing students can practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness meditation. These techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety, leading to increased energy levels and focus.
One way to practice stress management is to set aside dedicated time for relaxation each day. This can be achieved by setting aside 10-15 minutes a day for meditation, deep breathing, or reading a book.
Tip 6: Set Realistic Goals and Priorities
Setting realistic goals and priorities can help nursing students stay focused and motivated, even when they’re low on energy.
Aim to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for each study session. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and prioritize the most important tasks.
One way to set realistic goals is to use a planner or calendar. Write down each study session goal and break it down into smaller tasks. This can help you stay organized and focused, reducing stress and anxiety.
Tip 7: Seek Support from Peers and Professors
Seeking support from peers and professors can help nursing students stay motivated and gain new insights and perspectives.
Join study groups or online forums to connect with other nursing students. Collaborate with peers to review notes and create study materials. Share tips and tricks for staying energized and motivated.
One way to seek support from professors is to attend office hours or reach out via email. Ask for clarification on complex concepts, discuss challenges, and receive advice on studying and learning.
Tip 8: Use Energy-Boosting Study Strategies
Certain study strategies can help nursing students stay energized and focused.
Breaking down study material into smaller chunks and creating flashcards can help make studying more manageable and efficient.
One way to use energy-boosting study strategies is to make flashcards or concept maps. Write down key terms or concepts on one side and the definition or key points on the other. Review these materials before studying or during breaks.
Tip 9: Get Enough Light Exposure
Getting enough light exposure can help regulate circadian rhythms and increase energy levels.
Nursing students can open curtains or blinds during the day to let natural light in. Aim for at least 10 minutes of direct sunlight per day.
One way to get enough light exposure is to take a short walk outside during lunch or breaks. Take a few deep breaths and soak up some sunlight.
Tip 10: Take Care of Your Physical Health
Taking care of physical health is essential for maintaining energy levels.
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help identify any health issues that may be impacting energy levels. Discuss any concerns or challenges with your provider.
One way to take care of physical health is to schedule regular exercise and activities, such as a yoga class or a game night with friends.
Conclusion
Maintaining energy levels is essential for nursing students to effectively study and learn during SNBT courses. By prioritizing sleep, fueling the body with a balanced diet, staying hydrated, taking breaks, practicing stress management techniques, setting realistic goals and priorities, seeking support from peers and professors, using energy-boosting study strategies, getting enough light exposure, and taking care of physical health, nursing students can improve their energy levels and achieve their academic goals.
Remember, staying energized and motivated requires a combination of strategies that work for you and your lifestyle. Experiment with different tips and techniques until you find what works best for you.
References
- National Sleep Foundation. (2020). How Much Sleep Do We Need?
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2020). Healthy Eating.
- American Heart Association. (2019). Hydration: Why It’s So Important.
- Mindful. (2020). 10 Simple Strategies for Reducing Stress.
- National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Stress: Basic Facts.
- American Psychological Association. (2020). Stress In America: Coping with Change.
- Healthline. (2020). How to Stay Motivated and Focused in School.
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