How Scheduled Relaxation Can Support Consistent GMAT Progress
When we think of GMAT prep, we often focus only on the hours of study we need to put in. What tends to get overlooked is the role of
intentional rest and recovery in making those study hours effective. If you’re studying for the GMAT while balancing work, school, or other responsibilities, it might feel like you have no time to spare. But taking regular moments to reset can actually improve your focus and performance, both during your study sessions and on test day.
One effective way to manage stress and avoid burnout is by
scheduling short relaxation breaks into your routine, just as you would schedule a study session or a meeting. You don’t need hours to reap the benefits. Just a few minutes of focused relaxation can help reduce anxiety, clear your mind, and improve your ability to concentrate.
Here are a few “relaxation resets” you can experiment with:
- Take 5 minutes before and after each GMAT study session to do deep breathing exercises. Simply focusing on your breath can help calm your nervous system.
- Try a short morning or evening yoga session, even 10 minutes, to stretch your body and settle your mind.
- Use a guided meditation app to start your day with 10 minutes of mindfulness or end your day on a calming note.
- Block off 30 minutes on Saturday and Sunday mornings for a longer meditation or gentle movement session.
- Schedule a weekly yoga class or at-home yoga video to give your body and mind time to relax and reset.
- Create a calming nighttime ritual, like a warm bath with relaxing scents and music, to unwind from the day.
Even if you’re in the middle of a hectic day, consider taking
two to five minutes for a simple meditation technique, such as focusing on your breath or doing a quick body scan. These methods are easy to learn and can make a big difference in how you feel.
The key is to
make relaxation part of your schedule, not an afterthought. You’re already blocking off time to study, so why not build in short breaks that help you recover and refocus? Try bookending your study sessions with short relaxation exercises. This habit not only helps reduce stress but also allows you to better compartmentalize your day. You’ll be more present during non-GMAT time and avoid the feeling that studying is taking over everything.
Managing stress is just as much a part of GMAT success as mastering Data Insights or Critical Reasoning. So be kind to yourself. Schedule your relaxation the same way you schedule your prep. Your mind will thank you for it.
Reach out to me with any questions about your GMAT prep. Happy studying!
Warmest regards,
Scott Woodbury-StewartFounder & CEO,
Target Test Prep