Taking breaks during study
We’re in the throes of ‘exam weather’, and while it’s tempting to pull out last year’s summer clothes and switch to holiday mode, there’s still a lot of studying to be done.
The study guidelines you’ve heard time and time again talk about regular breaks being an absolute must. But, how good are we at taking these breaks?
What is a break?
It might seem like a good idea to recite definitions while you’re making that much needed cup of tea, but you’ll return to your desk as tired as you left.
Looks like a break, talks like a break, but is it really a break? Keep these things in mind when you’re putting down the books for a few minutes.
Leave the room
Whether you’re sitting in the library or in your bedroom, a change of scene can be really helpful to give your mind a rest.
Get some fresh air
It’s much easier to switch off thoughts of the Hamlet quotes you just wrote if you can’t see them. If the weather’s on your side venturing outdoors is a great idea.
Fresh air does the same job as that third cup of coffee when it comes to waking you up, and without the bad breath.
Plan ahead
The hardest part of taking a study break is motivating yourself to go back at the end of it. Knowing what you’re going back to makes it so much easier.
Break up your day into clear, manageable goals. If you know exactly what’s waiting for you at your desk and how you’re going to tackle it, climbing those stairs doesn’t seem so daunting.
Distract yourself
Relaxing isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially in the short window of a study break. If you’re finding it difficult to slow down your thoughts, distract yourself with music, a book, or a chat with whoever’s at the kitchen table.
Remember these exams are not the only thing happening in your life; spending every minute thinking about your workload won’t improve your results, or your mental health at the end of the day.
Exams can be stressful, and it’s times like these when we have to be more careful with our mental health. Taking breaks is a big part of that, so why not do it properly?
