You may be wondering why I would suggest several ways to spend time during reading days and the upcoming week that do not involve preparing for your final exams. However, I believe that because we are only human, we all need to take breaks from studying from time to time.
There are several different ways that you can revive yourself from being buried in the books for too long:
Make a snack.
It’s really hard to study on an empty stomach! A great way to take a break is to make yourself homemade snacks because it allows for extra time away from studying and the accomplishment of preparing your own delicious pick-me-ups. If you don’t want to make your own snacks but still want to make a study break out of snack time, head to LaFun or one of several stress-reliever events on campus with free food!!
Exercise.
Exercise is a great way to let off steam after studying for a long time, especially since it gets you moving after you’ve been glued to a desk or in front of a computer screen. Exercise is also a great way to boost your mood and revive motivation to study afterwards.
Clean your dorm room.
This might not sound like a much better alternative to studying in the amount of fun that you would have, but nonetheless, cleaning is a great way to spend a study break. It gives to a chance to re-organize and freshen up your living space, which in turn can make it a much more pleasant area for further studying.
Work on one of your hobbies.
If you love reading, maybe read a chapter from that new novel you’ve been working on. If you’re a musician, play your instrument of choice for a while. If you love baking, see the first study break suggestion above! Doing something you love can be a really great way to let off some steam or just take your mind off finals for a little while.
Take a nap.
If you’re so burnt out from studying that you can’t think coherently, a nap might be a great way to recharge your batteries. Your body needs sleep, and while it may seem sacrilege to say it during reading days/finals week, SLEEP (and extremely closely related, your physical and mental health) is more important than school work!!!!
Take a walk .
Ok, maybe you’re super done with studying but don’t feel tired; you just want a change of pace or venue. Luckily, Notre Dame has a stunningly beautiful and extensive campus (even with the recent cloudy/rainy days) that is perfect for casual strolls. I personally recommend walking around the lakes and making a quick stop by the Grotto.
As much as you feel the need to study, remember that you also have other needs (like food and sleep), and sometimes taking a few breaks can allow you to be even more productive during your study sessions. Best of luck in your preparation for your exams, term papers and projects!
Go Irish! Beat Finals! XOXO, HCND
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