Pros of Taking Breaks While Studying

If you think the perfect student studies 24 hours straight, you’re in for a surprise. They have the perfect balance between studying and taking breaks. Whether you’re studying matric or an accredited course, enjoy the pros of taking study breaks listed below:

Improves Your Memory and Concentration

Taking breaks is a great way to improve your memory and concentration. It will help you remember what you have learnt easily and keep you focused.

Feel Recharged

Studying for long periods of time can leave you feeling tired and less motivated. By taking a break, you’ll give your mind a rest from all the heavy thinking. This will boost your energy.

Ups Your Productivity

Since you have more energy, you’ll be more productive. This doesn’t mean taking on more than you can handle. It is a great way to help you reach your short term or daily study goals.

Relax Your Muscles

Been sitting hunched over your laptop all day? Take a breather. It allows you to stretch your muscles and joints. This prevents any aches and pains while relaxing your muscles.

Keep the Stress Levels Down

Student life can be an enjoyable yet stressful time of our lives. So take a break to calm your mind. It relieves the pressure and stress, leaving a positive impact on your mental health.

Take a new Look at Difficult Concepts

If you are having a difficult time understanding a concept, step away. The short break will allow you to come back to your work with a different, and even better perspective.

Positive Feeling all Around

The added energy, productivity and focus you get from studying will create a positive environment. You’ll be eager to learn and study more often.

Tips on How to Add Breaks to Your Studying

Thinking of taking a six hour long break? Well that could hurt your productivity. But taking short frequent breaks will give you the boost you need between studying. If you’re not sure how to add breaks to your study time, use our helpful tips below:

Create Flexibility in Your Study Schedule – Don’t fill your entire study schedule. Create some space for some flexibility. This will leave you with time for an activity.
Take a Break After Every Chapter – Not sure when to take a break? Taking a break between chapters is a great option. It could be the motivation you need.
Slow Down if You’re Feeling Tired – Force is a crime, even while studying. If you feel tired, move away from the books. You won’t learn anything if you feel fatigued.
Set an Alarm – If you keep forgetting to take a break, set an alarm. It will remind you to let your hair down. You can set another alarm to tell you when to hit the books again.
Create Study Goals – When you reach your daily study goal, such as completing a unit, take a little break. You’ll reach your goals and reward yourself with a chance to relax.

How Long Should Your Study Break be?

As mentioned above, longer breaks could impact your productivity. Five minutes to a 30 minute break is an ideal choice. This is a great way to relax, while you remember the knowledge you have just learnt.

Great Ways to Take a Break While Studying

Throwing a massive party sounds like the ideal break, but keep that aside for the weekend. There are many healthy ways in which you can take it easy while studying. Below are just some of the ways you can slow down while you study. Choose one that works for you.

Nap Time

Taking a nap is a great way to relax. You’ll remember what you studied and feel fresh and ready to take on more work. After all, they don’t call it a power nap for nothing.

Take a Walk

Walking has many health benefits, not only for your body, but mind too. It doesn’t have to be a brisk walk. A change in scenery and some vitamin D will do wonders for you.

Sweat it out

Who would have thought that exercising is a great way to take a break? It relieves the stress that has built up while studying. You’ll stay focused on your work after a great workout session.

Keep a Clean Space

Pick up the broom and sweep away your study stress. A little chore is a great way to take a break from your books. Tidying up helps keep your study space organised too.

Have a Chat

Need to switch off a bit? Call a friend. Talking to a friend will help you relax. You can even explain what you have learnt to your friend. It will refresh your memory.

Bad Breaks That Could Affect Your Studying

Not every break you take is a benefit to your studies. Some could affect your concentration, leaving you with less time to focus on your work. Study breaks to avoid include:

Nap Time Turns Into Bedtime – We know we said napping is good. But it shouldn’t be too long. Keep it to less than an hour or it could break your focus.
Browsing Through Social Media – Social media is one of the biggest time wasters, and adds to your stress. One minute could turn into five hours on social media.
Eating a Big Meal – Eating a big meal may sound like a good idea, but it may do more harm than good. Once you’re full, you’ll feel sleepy with no motivation.
Your Break is Longer Than Your Studies – Taking more time relaxing? Then you won’t get much studying done. You’ll end up cramming for your exam.