Your ultimate guide to study breaks
Need a breather from your coursework? Check out these fun ways to recharge, no matter your mood.
How would you describe your attention span?
There’s no right answer, and it’s different for everyone. Perhaps you can sit down with a cup of coffee and focus for an hour-long study session. Or maybe you’re itching to move after the first 10 minutes at your desk!
No matter how long you spend studying, you’ll always need a break. Giving yourself permission to unwind will lead to higher productivity when you return. You’ll jump back into your online course feeling refreshed and satisfied that you’re building sustainable study habits along the way.
But once you’ve committed to taking a break, how do you spend your downtime? We’re here to help you find out.
How long should you study before taking a break?
When it comes to online study, you’re in control. You can take frequent breaks, or keep studying for a longer duration. Some research suggests spending 52 minutes on a task followed by a 17-minute break for maximum productivity. But there’s an easier way to calculate the correct amount of time—and that’s to listen to your body.
Your body will send you signals when you’re reaching your limit. Those could be mental signals like reduced concentration, or a desire to engage in any other task but your study (also known as procrastination). Or they could be physical signals, like a stiff neck from looking at your laptop for too long.
Being mindful of what your body is telling you—also known as interoception—will help you find the duration that’s right for you.
How can you make the most of your study break?
Before you decide how to spend your study break, ask yourself what you need. Does your brain feel frazzled because you just memorised the periodic table? Or are you trying to conjure a brilliant idea for an essay, but your mind feels blank?
Whether you need to rest because you’re overstimulated, or to find inspiration when energy is low, these study break ideas will give you a starting point.
Study break #1: Boost your motivation with laughter
Need a break because you’re lacking motivation? Use laughter to reduce study stress and boost your dopamine.
Cells at Work! is a slapstick comedy on Netflix, and it’s deceptively educational (especially if you’re studying biology). Blood cells and bacteria are represented as characters who battle each other for the greater good of their home: the human body. Even while you’re taking a break, these heroes keep on working inside you.
For a longer break, try Guy Mont Spelling Bee. This ABC iView series features a panel of comedians who try (and fail) to spell ridiculous words. If you study languages online, this is bound to lift your mood.
Study break #2: Escape into your favourite video game
Gaming in moderation can do wonders for your health and wellbeing. It can direct your attention, bring you a feeling of reward, and boost your grey matter.
Enjoy the stimulating soundtrack and competitive nature of a quick Mario Kart race, or build your own university with Two Point Campus.
For something slower paced, Animal Crossing: New Horizons gives you a private island. Feel a sense of accomplishment as you plant flowers or go fishing, and make friends with quirky villagers along the way.
Study break #3: Open your mind with a new perspective
You’re here because you value education, so chances are you’re interested in expanding your mind with new perspectives. The good news is that you can also do this during your study break.
Spend your time on YouTube with Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell. Engage your critical thinking skills as you learn about topics ranging from your microbiome to the size of an atom.
For something lighter, fuse historical events with the ease of a fictional narrative. The Law According to Lidia Poët is a Netflix series about the first woman lawyer in Italy. In the show, Lidia fights for justice—and for her right to pursue a career in the field of law.
In real life, Lidia was a woman who worked for her brother’s legal practice until she finally gained full recognition after several decades. Lidia offers an inspiring new perspective, especially if you study law online.
You can also take a screen break by visiting your local library, or walking to your street library. Look for a biography that will bring new insights into your world, or a non-fiction book about a topic you’ve never heard of!
Study break #4: Reset your energy levels with a soothing rest
Taking a study break because your head is full? Doomscrolling isn’t going to help. Close the apps that make you feel drained, and add joy into your digital space.
DailyArt is a free app that reveals a different piece of fine art every day. Spend a few minutes with an impressionistic landscape or Japanese woodblock print. Looking at an artwork is a proven method of increasing focus and self-esteem—both of which could give you the confidence to tackle study tasks after your break.
For something even more soothing, take a nap during your study break and listen to a sleep story through the Calm app, or meditate with music and noise.
But you don’t need technology to relax. From your study space, try box breathing. This basic technique involves counting for four seconds through each of the following movements: inhale, hold, exhale, hold. It’ll leave you feeling centred and better able to concentrate after your break.
Study break #5: Make it your own!
Why not expand this template with your own study break ideas? List your favourite shows, podcasts, board games, or other activities that bring you joy.
If you need extra study support, book a consultation with one of our friendly student advisors. They’ll help you navigate your study load, and shed light on more study resources matched to your needs.
Disclaimer: This blog does not contain affiliate links or paid recommendations.
