June is exam season… and if you’ve got a teenager at home, you’re probably feeling it too!

So let’s ask… how can you support them without adding more pressure?

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, exam stress can cause liver Qi stagnation – basically, when everything feels a bit stuck. This can show up as mood swings, anxiety, poor sleep, low energy, and that “I just can’t focus” feeling.

This is where acupuncture, reflexology and naturopathic support can really help – calming the nervous system, improving sleep, and helping teens feel more balanced and able to cope. An acupuncturist may also use ear seeds (tiny stickers with a small seed on it), placed on points on the ear and gently pressed throughout the day to ease anxiety and support focus. Ask me, your local acupuncturist, I also offer reflexology for teens and bespoke flower remedies.

At home, your support makes a huge difference and it doesn’t need to be complicated:

• Keep things calm and predictable (food, sleep, routine – it all helps)

• Create a gentle wind-down in the evening – dim lights, less screen time, slower pace

• Offer warm, nourishing meals (and maybe ease off the energy drinks!)

• Try calming extras like magnesium baths, lavender oil, herbal teas or flower remedies

• Remind them to breathe – in for 4, out for 6 works wonders

• Encourage a bit of fresh air each day – even a short walk helps clear the head

• Suggest writing worries down rather than carrying them around

In TCM, when energy flows and the mind is calm, everything works better – including revision!

Exams don’t last forever, but how your teen feels during them really matters. With the right support, they can feel calmer, clearer, and a little more in control (and so can you!).

By Sarah Stamp
Acupuncturist & Holistic Therapist