Learning is an extraordinary and most rewarding thing you
can do to a human being. But it can be discouragement and source of stress
especial when you don’t study breaks. A well-planned
study break can don’t lead to
procrastination. The primary purpose of a study break is to rejuvenate one to focus
on the task at hand when it’s time to
resume your work. Research shows that
regular breaks from studying help to
improve the concentration, productivity, and creativity of a student. There are
different ways to have a break from your studies based on your preferences, and
what can work best.
Include breaks in your daily schedule
Always take 15 minutes break for every 50-90 minutes of
studying to recharge your wits. Scientific studies show that your brain can
only focus up to 90 minutes before it needs refreshment due to ultradian rhythm, a natural cycle of concentration of
human experience throughout the activity.
Research proves that some people need a
break after 50 minutes of studying while others can have a break after 90
minutes of learning. In other words, the length of the pause varies from one person to another but 15 minutes is ideal.
Avoid breaks shorter than 10 minutes or longer than 25 minutes.
Stick to the daily break schedule
At first, you'll need to experiment how often your breaks should be then set a break schedule that suits you
best. Study only until a natural stopping point, then take pause even when not
done with a research topic. For instance, in case you are reading a text, you
don’t need to wait until the chapter is over before taking a break. Strictly
follow your break schedule and postponing it may lead to working past your
ability to concentrate which may result in reduced
understanding and body fatigue.
Time your breaks
Timing every breaks prevents you from losing focus so that
you can get back to your study table with a refreshed mind. You can set the alarm on
your phone once you step outside or use kitchen alarm
to take a food break. It will be of more
significant advantage to using
your phone to remind when to start or end a break.
Shift your after every break
Although it’s not a necessity, you might find
it helpful to switch subject after each break
to stimulate your mind in different ways.
To achieve this, you need to have a timetable
that can accommodate various changes in
every break. For an instant, if you are studying mathematics, you
may consider switching chemistry after 15
minutes of break.
Healthy
study break activities
Outdoor exercise
Fresh physical exercise can help clear your mind. A 15 minutes
exercise can promote blood flow and make you feel more energetic to continue
with your studies. You take a brief walk or engage in your favorite sport.
Avoid strenuous activities that consume
your energy. It is best to stick to
moderate exercise that you don’t feel too sweety
or uncomfortable to proceed with your study. For instance, you might
take few shots instead of playing the game. In case
the weather isn’t favorable, perform
indoor activities like jogging or matching.
Clean up your study area
Coffee mugs,
loose papers, and trash can be
distracting and prevent you from concentrating during the studying. Use your
break time to clean up your table and prepare it for the next study. In case
cleaning up the table is lengthy, you might save your time by postponing the
cleaning to the following day.
What to avoid during study break
There are some
things you must avoid during your study
breaks. Wrong types of activities on a break
can distract you to have the opposite of you need after a break.
Snacking junk
food
While on a study
break, stay away from junk food. Junk foods like pizza can zap your brain and
energy for your next session. High sugar content food and fried foodstuffs are
especially unhealthy for a student. Also,
limit caffeine intake as it only has temporary
stimulation effects which will
make you feel tired after its results are
over.
Avoid taking lengthy naps
Short power naps are healthy as they help to refresh the brain. Naps longer than 20 minutes can only make you feel more tired and unmotivated. Set a 15 minutes alarm to ensure that you don’t exceed the limit. Balance your nap by exercising a few minutes during the next session’s break.
Short power naps are healthy as they help to refresh the brain. Naps longer than 20 minutes can only make you feel more tired and unmotivated. Set a 15 minutes alarm to ensure that you don’t exceed the limit. Balance your nap by exercising a few minutes during the next session’s break.
Avoid spending your free time on the mobile device, your computer or watching television. Playing video games and browsing social media can hinder your productivity and make you feel tired. Socializing is during study break is recommended but skip texting and opt a phone call.
