The Effects of Breathing Exercises on Exam Anxiety, Attention Deficit, and Academic Achievement in Students Preparing for University Entrance Exams

Breathing, the process of inhalation and exhalation, is a vital physiological function for human life. The respiratory system facilitates the intake of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide. Oxygen obtained through respiration supports numerous essential bodily functions, including energy production, cellular activity, acid-base balance, and brain health. In children, respiratory physiology exhibits differences compared to adults, influenced by anatomical and physiological characteristics that change with age. As children grow, these differences gradually diminish. During adolescence, the growth rate of organs and systems increases significantly.

According to the World Health Organization, adolescence is a unique developmental stage between childhood and adulthood, crucial for establishing the foundations of lifelong health. Adolescents undergo rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial development, which influences their emotions, thought processes, decision-making, and interactions with the world. These interactions also impact academic achievement.

The process of preparing for university entrance examinations can be a stressful and anxiety-inducing period for many students. Common sources of anxiety include social and parental expectations, time management challenges, and career uncertainty. Methods for managing anxiety include participation in social activities, hobbies, meditation, and breathing exercises. Modern education emphasizes not only cognitive skill development but also the enhancement of emotional and social abilities. Supporting students in attention, stress coping, and anxiety management, especially in high-pressure situations like exams, is directly related to academic success. Accordingly, incorporating attention-enhancing practices, breathing techniques, or mindfulness-based interventions into educational programs is recommended. In a study by Işık (2022), mindfulness and attention training provided to primary school students resulted in significant improvements in Bourdon Attention Test scores, suggesting that combining cognitive attention training with psychological relaxation techniques can be effective.

Nursing encompasses more than physical care; it adopts a holistic approach that addresses mental and emotional well-being. School nurses and other healthcare professionals within educational settings play a crucial role in supporting students' psychological well-being, monitoring exam-related anxiety, and providing early intervention if necessary. Literature indicates that nurses actively guiding students in attention and stress management programs significantly reduce anxiety levels. Furthermore, nurses can support the application of psycho-educational methods, such as breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness practices, while monitoring students' attention levels.

Breathing exercises involve conscious control of respiration to achieve relaxation, reduce stress, increase energy, and improve overall health. Various techniques provide distinct benefits, with controlled breathing serving as the initial step in promoting physical and mental relaxation. These exercises are particularly effective in alleviating physiological tension, such as nausea, tremors, or shortness of breath. Physiologically, controlled breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system and reduces cortisol levels, producing a calming effect on the body. It is suggested that approximately 20 minutes of breathing exercises are required to allow the body to achieve a relaxed and focused state after stress onset. Practicing breathing exercises 10-15 minutes before exams may help prevent the physiological manifestations of anxiety.