Student Self-Care: How to Unwind During Exam Season

Exam season means long days at a desk, too much screen time and not enough sleep. Looking after yourself isn't a distraction from revision; it helps you keep going. Here's how.

Study in focused blocks

Try the Pomodoro method: 25 minutes of focused work, then a 5-minute break. After four rounds, take a longer break.

Make your breaks real breaks

Scrolling your phone isn't a break for your eyes. Stand up, look out of a window, stretch or grab a drink. Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. More in our guide to tired eyes from screens.

Protect your sleep

• Stop revising at least an hour before bed
• Keep your phone out of reach at night
• Go to bed and get up at roughly the same time

Move every day

A walk, a gym session or a quick home workout clears your head.

Eat and drink properly

Regular meals and plenty of water. Go easy on energy drinks.

Build an end-of-revision ritual

Close the books, tidy your desk and do something that tells your brain you're done for the day. Ten minutes with a heated eye massager is a popular choice for giving tired eyes a rest.

Talk to someone

If exam stress is getting on top of you, talk to friends, family or your university's wellbeing service. You don't have to deal with it alone.

FaceWave has 3 heat levels, 3 massage modes, up to 4 hours per charge with USB-C charging, automatic switch-off, free UK delivery and a 1-year warranty.

Add FaceWave to your study routine →

Frequently asked questions

How can I relax during exam season?

Take regular screen-free breaks, protect your sleep, move every day and build a short ritual to end each revision session.

How long should study breaks be?

A 5-minute break every 25 to 30 minutes, with a longer break every couple of hours, works for many students.

What's a good gift for a university student?

Something practical that helps them rest, like a relaxation gadget, a good desk lamp or a cosy blanket.

FaceWave is a wellness product, not a medical device. If you have an eye condition, have had recent eye surgery, are pregnant or have a medical condition, check with your doctor before use.