With the first couple weeks of introductions over, deadlines are coming up and the first wave of midterms are right around the corner. Students are settling back into the pre-holiday routine of class, study, sleep, repeat. But of course you’re going to need to step away from the books and give your brain a breather every once and a while. A ten-minute break is often recommended for every 90 minutes of studying. Study breaks are important because they will help recharge your brain, refresh your body and allow you to process more once you’re back to work. Though checking your Twitter feed or playing a game of Trivia Crack are entertaining diversions, they aren’t the most productive. Here are a few ideas that will help you get the most out of your study break.
Get a glass of water or tea.
This will get you up for a minute, and keep you hydrated and healthy. Not only is it essential, water will help refuel your mind and boost your mood so that getting back to work won’t seem so bad. Tea is warm and comforting, and offers a caffeine boost without overdoing it. Coffee is sometimes necessary for those late nights, but can make you feel jittery and less likely to focus.
Exercise
Squeezing a workout into your day is always a good idea, and so easy to adapt to your study schedule. Exercise will allow you to release energy you have saved up from sitting all day, help you sleep better, and drastically improve your mood. If you have an hour or two, try heading out to UVic’s Ian Stewart Complex (term-long gym membership is only $55!), or join one of the many sport clubs that are offered. If you can’t find the time, try looking up simple workouts online (popular Youtubers include Tone It Up and XHIT Daily). You can find one that fits into your time frame or create your own workouts. Most of them are easy to do in your rooms and don’t require any equipment. If you’re not into high-intensity training, try a walk down to Cadboro Bay or just around the block. The fresh air will help clear your head and make it easier to study once you’re back at your desk.
Pre-prepare meals
When you take a break to eat, try cooking extra of whatever it is you’re making. This way you can save it for any time within the next few days while you’re cramming for a midterm and don’t want to cook anything new. Try making dinners that are filling and will stay fresh for as long as you need them to, such as a whole-wheat pasta salad or chicken stir-fry. The food will keep you energized and focused- and save time in the future.
Pamper Yourself
Whether it’s taking a bath or just washing your face, spending some time to keep yourself healthy and fresh is definitely worth it. Showers are always good because they help clear your head, and you’ll be ready for bed whenever you’re done working for the night. For smaller breaks try painting your nails or moisturizing your legs. All of these things require little focus, so they’ll give your brain a break. They’ll also make you feel more comfortable and ready to take on the tasks ahead of you.
Clean
What’s more productive then giving your room or house a quick clean? You’ll get away from the books and still do something productive. You can clean for however long you want, and will go back to work in a fresher environment. For a quick break try unloading the dishwasher or picking up the clothes from your floor. If you have more time you can do your laundry or vacuum the house. If cleaning doesn’t seem like much of a break add some music to amp up the fun!
Interact with Others
It’s amazing how much time you can spend cooped up in your room working and not get out and have a conversation with someone. Try asking your roommate how her day was or calling your parents back home. You can talk about your stresses and get them off your shoulders or have a good laugh to boost your mood. Remember that your friends and family want to know how you’re doing, especially when things get busy and stressful.
Keep these tips in mind for your next study break and you’ll be more prepared, organized and happy. Good luck!