Imagine you’re writing a test - a really important test - at 8:30 a.m. You’ve got two and a half hours to get yourself ready. How do you make the most of them?
In his first address to Greenwood students on October 1, Dr. Greg Wells asked students to envision this very scenario. Then, he walked them through every moment of that 2.5 hours, giving them recommendations on everything from sleep to nutrition to activity. The end goal? Walking into the classroom calm, energized and focused.
Here’s the schedule Dr. Wells recommended for an 8:30 test:
Wake up at 6 a.m.
Shower with HOT water (finish with 30 seconds of cold on the back of the neck to boost energy levels)
Bring any needed supplies downstairs
Eat breakfast (3-4 eggs, avocado and green veggies is a great option)
Drink water and green tea (caffeine is best consumed 30-60 minutes before the test)
Arrive at school at 7:30 a.m.
Go for a hard 5-10 minute walk (exercise improves mental performance)
Go inside at 7:45 a.m.
Sip more water
Ace the test!
Dr. Wells provided students with the background research supporting his recommendations at each step, including brain scans and clinical studies.
His presentation also formed the basis for the first Well-being Wednesday session of the year. During their scheduled Adviser period, students reflected on what Dr. Wells told them at assembly and learned more about Greenwood’s health and well-being program. Wednesday Adviser periods will be used to deliver this program - which Dr. Wells is crafting for Greenwood based on student feedback - throughout the year.