Did you know that there are studies that show humans’ concentration and alertness change every 90 minutes? So, if you’re studying, it’s incredibly essential for you to take breaks. Physical activity, such as jogging, doing a puzzle, or playing with radio-controlled boats, can help you destress and ensure that you won’t push yourself beyond your limits. By destressing, you will even have a fresher mind after your break, improving your concentration when you return to your studies. So, during your break from studying, close your books, turn off your computer, and do the things below to destress.
Meditate
Meditation is a great way to center yourself after an intense study session. It’s an excellent way to unwind and calm yourself. You can meditate by simply breathing in, observing your feelings, and then breathing out. You may even positively visualize the rest of your day, your goals, or the like. Mindfulness helps reduce stress, depression, and anxiety. So, take a break from studying to meditate.
Play With Toys
Playing with toys as an adult can be nostalgic, providing opportunities for stress relief, imagination, creativity, and social interaction. Try simple single-player games. Or, invite friends over for a game night. If you’re not into board games, you can try playing with RC devices like radio-controlled boats. All you need is a source of fresh water, like a lake, creek, local pond, or even your bathtub. So, no matter what toys you choose to play, as long as it helps you destress, then there’s nothing wrong with indulging your inner child!
Watch TV
Rewatching a television series or movie allows you to not overthink the intricacies of the plot. You can easily follow the pacing of the story since you’ve already watched it. This allows you to simply relax and have fun. Watching something that can make you laugh is also a great way to destress. Laughter produces endorphins which improve your mood. If you have a favorite sitcom or comedy movie, use it to cheer you up during a study session break.
Do Puzzles
Puzzles can help distract you from hours of studying and the stress that comes with it. Allow your brain a distraction from your studies by focusing on solving the puzzle in front of you. Plus, you’ll feel satisfaction when you complete a challenging puzzle, which can reduce your stress and boost your mood.
Admiring Art
Looking at words and figures for long periods of time can affect how you view your lessons. For a change of scenery, view art that piques your interest. By looking at art that you’re interested in, you’re not only refreshing your eyesight, but you’re also relaxing your mind.
Exercise
Exercising is always a good stress reliever and mood booster. That’s why you’ll see numerous people who go to the gym after work or study. Using the gym machines enables you to vent your frustrations. Furthermore, being active allows you to keep your brain awake, producing numerous chemical reactions that help your physical and mental well-being.
Sleep
Most students agree that they don’t get enough sleep, especially during exam week. But remember that sleep is essential, allowing you to better focus when you are awake. Most adults need at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to feel well-rested. The amount of sleep you get can affect your energy levels, mood, focus, and overall functioning. A well-rested mind and body can perform to their fullest potential. Consider going to bed earlier to improve your sleep quality. You can also schedule timed naps during study breaks. You may be surprised by how good you feel after taking just a few minutes to rest.
Go Outside
Going outside and breathing the fresh air is a great way to unplug. Did you know that a few minutes surrounded by greenery can destress you? It boosts dopamine and endorphin production, reducing your cortisol levels. It can also lower blood pressure, muscle tension, and brain activity. Furthermore, vitamin D produced by the sun can help regulate your mood and reduce feelings of sadness. So, whenever you get overwhelmed, step outside for a break or take a stroll in your neighborhood. On your days off, visit somewhere with greenery, like parks, forests, mountains, and the like. You can even bring radio-controlled boats with you.
Final Thoughts
Each of us has different ways of destressing after long hours of studying. But remember that what works for one may not work for another. So try different methods to relax and unplug to determine what is best for you. Whether it’s going outside, playing with radio-controlled boats, or appreciating art – there are many unique ways to destress. Taking time to refresh and ease your mind allows you to come back to your studies with better focus and higher learning potential.
Self-care is essential to mental health, which impacts learning and outcomes. The tutors at WorldWise Tutoring assist their students with learning essential life skills like stress management and other forms of self-care, so they can experience success in the classroom and beyond. Our unique methodologies prepare students for challenges in school and life by teaching skills beyond academics. Hire a tutor today to experience this for yourself!
