When sitting down for long hours of study, it is important to remember to take regular breaks to prevent study fatigue setting in. But how exactly do they help?
We explain how taking a break during your studies can benefit you and give some useful tips on what you can do to make the most of these breaks, so that when you sit back down to your studies you feel refreshed and focused.
What are the benefits?
It can be easy to burn yourself out while studying – spending hours working on an assignment or project without respite. Taking regular breaks can help to prevent study fatigue and keep you focused.
These breaks allow you to refresh your mind and improve creativity, as well as helping you to maintain your attention and regain your motivation.
Below are some tips on how to make the most out of your breaks.
Duration
One of the most common mistakes students make when taking a break from their studies is letting the break run too long. Having breaks that are 15–20 minutes long are ideal but try to avoid them going for longer than that, as you will be more likely to lose the motivation to return to your studies.
Timers can be a useful tool to help prevent you from over extending your break.
Move yourself
Sitting at your desk for hours can be a strain on your body, leading to stiffness and tiredness. Exercising during your study breaks is an ideal way to prevent your body from becoming tired and sore.
Stretching or taking a walk short walk will help get your blood flowing and re- you in the process. Getting out in the fresh air can help to clear your head and improve your mental well-being as well.
Take a power nap
Done in short bursts, power naps offer an amazing (and relaxing) way to improve your productivity. You should aim for a 15–20 minute power nap, which will help to make you more alert, reduce stress and improve cognitive function. However, if you nap for too long you will run the risk of sleep inertia, leaving you feeling disoriented and drowsy, so make sure to set your alarm.
Meditation
Meditation can be an effective form of relaxation and allows time for your mind to rest and recharge. There are many different mediation types available, so do some research and find out which one works best for you. Meditation is perfect for reducing stress, helping to control anxiety and improving your mental health.
Do a different task
Performing a different task can often feel like a break because, depending on the task, you might be using different parts of your brain. These tasks can include tidying your study space or doing some errands around the house, though if you are pressed for time, tackling a different study task can achieve the same effect while also allowing you to work towards completing the overall task.
If you find yourself struggling to give yourself a break, we have put together some useful tips to improve your time management and get the breaks that you deserve.
