Finals are next week, so life is crazy right now. If you can’t tell, I’ve been on a bit of a productivity kick on the blog recently! I’ve already shared 4 tips for staying motivated in a busy time, 4 tips for productivity after a long day, and even 5 productive ways to waste time. So, today I’m keeping it going and sharing 6 productive study breaks!
Honestly, my first thought when I hear study breaks, is scrolling on Buzzfeed or taking a nap… But these aren’t the most productive study breaks. When you only have an hour to spare, you need to make sure you’re spending it in a way that actually refreshes you!
1. Go to the gym.
I’ve never been one of those people who enjoys working out… until now. For the past two weeks, I’ve loved going to the gym once (or twice) a day whenever I have even 30 minutes to spare. When you’re super stressed, going to the gym might be the last thing on your mind. But, I have found that it’s the best break. 20 minutes on the elliptical isn’t too much, but it’s 20 minutes that I don’t have to think about anything else! Working out has so many benefits, making it one of my favorite study breaks.
2. Read a (chill) book.
During finals season, reading is the last thing on my mind. After a few hours studying, I would much prefer to watch reruns of Friends than read. But, those reruns turn into hours of their own, and before I know it, I’ve wasted a few hours. Instead, I like to pick up an old favorite book (Percy Jackson, holla) or a new favorite – I’ve been obsessed with Am I There Yet? by my favorite Instagram illustrator, Mari Andrew.
3. Spend some time outside.
This weather is amazing, so I want to soak up the sunshine as much as I can. Make it a priority to go outside, even if it’s just for a quick 10 minute walk. I also love to grab lunch (my newfound obsession is acai bowls… #basic) and eat that outside. Before I know it, it’ll be so hot that I won’t want to spend as much time outside as I am for work.
4. Change up your scenery.
This could mean going from your house to a coffee shop, or even just changing locations in a library. Or, if you only have 10 minutes, take a walk (see #3) or drive in your car jamming out. I get so restless when I’ve been in one place for too long, so changing up my location really helps.
5. Meet up with a friend.
Of course, you could turn this into a chance to study by meeting someone for coffee for a few hours. But, if you’re trying to take a break, grab dinner with a friend! You both have to eat anyway, so spend that time together catching up and hopefully not thinking about exams. I’m a major fan of coffee, and to me, nothing is better than coffee with a friend!
6. Pamper yourself.
Self-care Sundays are the best. For real. Spend 30 minutes pampering yourself with a face mask and/or painting your nails, and you’ll feel refreshed for the whole week. Taking care of yourself means making time to relax. Major bonus: Face masks are the perfect chance to multi-task and knock off a few other things on the list – read your favorite book or watch one (!!) episode of your current TV show while letting it sink in! Then, when you wash your face, you’re ready to take on more studying.
So, what are your favorite refreshing study breaks?! I’d love to know!
xoxo, Cecilia
