Saturday 28/June/2025 – 05:34 AM
In light of the tremendous pressures experienced by high school students during the exam season, many are looking for quick and simple means to reduce tension and improve focus, and among these means that may seem strange at first glance: chewing gum and using scented napkins, but do these tricks really have a scientific impact installed in reducing anxiety and improving academic performance?
Strange tricks to reduce anxiety during the exam
The researchers explained that chewing gum can help reduce stress levels and improve concentration and short -term memory, and according to research published in APPETITE, it was found that students who chewed gum while performing their tests were more vigilant and achieved better than those who did not use them. The researchers suggest that the constant chewing movement contributes to increasing blood flow to the brain, which enhances attention and reduces the feeling of tension.
Also, gum may be an effective anxiety tool, especially in environments that require a high concentration such as exam halls.
As for scented napkins, the idea is based on the effect of aromatherapy, an old treatment method that depends on odors to improve the mood and psychological state, smells such as mint, lavender and lemon have proven effective in reducing anxiety and stimulating vigilance.
It turns out that inhalation of mint smell can improve focus and increase vigilance, while the aroma of lavender can contribute to calming the nerves and relieve stress.
Also, the use of essential oils or scents as part of the alerting routine of exams may have a positive effect on the student’s psychological state, if it is used in a moderate and studied way.
Although these methods are not alternatives to good comfort, adequate sleep, and regular preparation, scented gum and napkins may play an auxiliary role in improving the psychological state of students during exams, some experts believe that the real benefit comes from the positive psychological impact and a feeling of control, which in turn reduces the levels of anxiety.
Chewing gum or using scented napkins may be unconventional, but supported by scientific studies indicating their effectiveness in reducing anxiety and enhancing focus, so there is nothing wrong with trying these simple tricks as part of a routine preparedness for exams as long as it is not distracted or causes inconvenience to others inside the examination hall.
