With China’s high-stakes gaokao exams starting June 7, schools nationwide are swapping last-minute cramming for mindfulness sessions, puppy therapy, and even dance breaks 🕺—all to help over 12 million students tackle the test with confidence.
Dubbed the world’s toughest exam, the gaokao shapes futures in a single score. But this year, educators are prioritizing mental wellness alongside academics. At Beijing No. 4 High School, students unwind with sunrise yoga and motivational graffiti walls. In Shanghai, classrooms host therapy dogs 🐶 for instant mood boosts. "Petting a golden retriever melts my anxiety," says senior Li Wei, 18. "It reminds me there’s life beyond textbooks."
Other innovations include:
Guided meditation apps tailored for pre-test jitters 🧘♂️
"Confidence carnivals" with games and free snacks 🍿
Teacher-led TikTok dance challenges to lighten the mood (#GaokaoGroove)
"Stress isn’t the enemy—it’s about channeling it," explains educator Zhang Mei. "These activities build resilience and remind students they’re not alone." As the countdown begins, the message is clear: A calm mind is the ultimate study hack. 💡
