How to Manage Your Body to Improve Your MindThroughout academia and higher education in general, advice can be found on how to learn or do 'absorb more effectively the knowledge that is presented. Although there is a lot of information out there on how to take notes or study for a test. There is the equally important but much less talked about impact of the connection between body and mind. The impact of a malnourished or sleep-deprived body can greatly affect the mind's ability to pay attention or remember what has been learned. Although there have been many studies on alcohol or drugs and their effects on the body and with this in mind, the aim of this article will be to focus on a healthy lifestyle. It is well known that the effects of a foreign substance in the body have a negative impact on mental abilities. It would be more beneficial for the majority of people to determine how much time they should spend sleeping or exercising and what type of foods they should eat. Armed with this knowledge, they might not only feel better, but also perform better. Why is it important to know how much exercise is enough? Exercise increases serotonin levels, reduces the production of stress hormones like cortisol and, if done outdoors, can increase skin production of vitamin D, an essential nutrient for strong bones. (More Evidence, 2011) Managing exams can be difficult enough, but when you add days missed due to illness to the mix, it can be overwhelming. Moderate exercise can also strengthen your immune system, which can help you fight off a cold or flu. (More evidence 2011) Many studies have shown a link between physical fitness and improved memory. Frequent exercise causes an increase in brain derivative...... middle of paper ..., which leads to lack of sleep or an overworked mind. There have been many stories of people skipping breakfast in the morning and rushing to school, only to find that they are unable to concentrate on the test or class due to hunger pains. No matter how well-intentioned our study habits are, if our body's health is not up to the challenge, it may not be possible to rise to the occasion.ReferencesCohen I. (1979 ) Stress and Wound Healing Cells Tissues Organs, 103 134-141 doi: 10.1159/000145004More evidence for a powerful mind-body connection (2011). Running & FitNews, 29(6)18-20 Parmeggiani, PL Velluti, Ricardo A. (2005) Physiological nature of sleep. London, GBR: Imperial College PressPaul, M. Panton, C. and Marzigliano. N. (2008) Do students with healthy habits perform better in their studies? Proceedings of the Academy of Educational Leadership (AEL)), 13(2) 47-54