Published: 28 March 2022
No matter how passionate about their studies, everyone needs to take a break now and again.
It helps us recover from stress, absorb what we have learned and restore our energy so we can keep going.
The question is, what should you do with your study breaks? Read on for some ideas.
Go for a walk
Whatever the weather, getting outside is a clever idea. For one thing, you will be using some of that pent up energy you have been storing from sitting in a lecture room or behind your desk.
Another reason is that being inside too long can leave you exposed to a build-up of carbon dioxide, which leaves you groggy and makes it hard to focus.
You will also be giving yourself a break from screens and allowing your brain space to absorb everything you have been learning.
Get a coffee
After an early morning lecture, why not grab a latte or cappuccino for that extra boost of energy?
The caffeine boost will give you the push you need to get back to the books and forces you to get up, go out and walk around even if it is just around the corner.
Just dance
When you are studying at home, it can be easy to stay sat in one spot all day. While that shows your dedication to doing your best, it is a clever idea to get moving every so often.
Why not try a five-minute dance party? It is something you can do with your friends or on your own. It does not have to impress anyone and can get your heart racing.
Exercise
Whether it is just doing some stretches, following a YouTube workout or heading to the gym for an hour, exercise is great for your brain and body.
You will be releasing happiness hormones like endorphins which will make you feel great and motivate you to get back to your studies with a positive mindset.
Meet a friend
Human beings thrive on interactions with other people. It is something we need to feel good (check out Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs for more on this).
So why not use your break to catch up with a friend. Set up a lunch, coffee break or even just a Zoom call and get chatting to remind yourself of all the best things in your life.
Get some hobbies
Do you want to learn the guitar? How about how to paint? Or even visit one of the museums in London?
A hobby can be a really grounding thing to do, especially when so much of your time is taken up with study. Pick something you have always told yourself you wanted to do, set some time in your diary, and just do it.
Play a game
You do not need the latest console or gaming PC to play games these days. Whatever you choose to do, the break will take you away from focusing on studying for a little while.
Whether you play Wordle [] for 20 minutes, start a puzzle or load up FIFA, choose something distracting, joyous, and unconnected with your work.
What do you do during your study breaks? Share your ideas with the community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram using #WeAreSunLon.