By: Madelyn Archambault, Francis College of Engineering Well-Being Leader
With impending finals, and many projects and assignments to complete, it is critical to remember to take breaks. When you spend too much time focusing on one singular task, you start to burn out your brain. Research shows that taking breaks can significantly improve your studying and improve your focus. Taking a break can help you and your brain refresh.
What qualifies as a good break? It can be anything that encourages you to move, get creative or socialize! A good break can range from a 5 minute stretch to a 50 minute workout. Trying to break up the monotonous routine of constant working can help make those study sessions easier and more productive.
One of the biggest traps is turning to social media or technology for a break. A recent study found that using social media as a break can drain your mental energy. Taking phone breaks can slow down your progress instead of helping you recharge.
The Unwind Your Mind campaign, launched by UMass Lowell’s Office of Student Life & Well-Being, focuses on moving away from technology and exploring healthier, alternative activities to recharge. You can read about some of the work the office has done so far to help promote digital wellness here: https://www.uml.edu/news/stories/2024/unwind-your-mind.aspx
If you’re unsure how to utilize your break time, here are some suggestions:
- Go for a walk
- Take a shower
- Meditate
- Stretch
- Call a friend
- Have a good meal
Taking a break looks different for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether it’s a quick walk, reading a book, or simply breathing deeply, what matters is stepping back, letting go of responsibilities, and giving yourself the time and space to truly relax and unwind. You deserve it.
Citations:
https://health.cornell.edu/about/news/study-breaks-stress-busters
https://www.bustle.com/p/taking-a-break-by-looking-at-social-media-doesnt-help-your-mind-reset-a-new-study-says-18682642
https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/taking-breaks/