How to Wind Down After Exams Without Losing Momentum

Exams are over. The pressure's gone. And while you deserve to relax, completely switching off for the next eight weeks can leave you feeling aimless, behind, or flat come September. Here's how to recover and stay lightly engaged this summer.

1. Take a Real Break

First, switch off. For a few days, do nothing academic. Sleep in, see friends, watch a film. You need to clear the stress out of your system. Rest now so you can reset.

2. Create a Soft Routine

Once you've had time to chill, build a light summer routine. Nothing intense: a daily walk, a short reading session, one hour a day of whatever interests you:language, writing, design.

3. Do a Personal Debrief

Write down what worked and what didn't this exam season. What did you wish you'd started sooner? What helped under pressure? Start to build the groundwork for next year.

4. Reconnect With Your Interests

Do one project that has nothing to do with school: a playlist, a short film, a collage, a local event. Something that reminds you what you care about when no one's grading you.

5. Stay Lightly in Touch With Learning

Sign up to a mailing list. Read one good article a week. Watch one solid YouTube explainer. The goal isn't to revise. It's to keep the engine warm.

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The best summer is the one that refuels you and leaves you feeling quietly prepared.

Drop your post-exam ritual in the comments of our latest Instagram post. We'll share our favourites.