The Science Behind Why Students Need to Take Breaks

The Science Behind Why Students Need to Take Breaks

As a student, it's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of academics. Between classes, homework, and extracurricular activities, it's tempting to push through and get everything done in one sitting. However, research shows that taking breaks is essential for learning and productivity. In this post, we'll explore the science behind why students need to take breaks and how it can benefit their academic success.

The Concept of Ultradian Rhythms

In the 1950s, psychologist Nathaniel Kleitman discovered the concept of ultradian rhythms, which refers to the natural cycles of productivity and rest that occur throughout the day. These cycles last around 90-120 minutes, after which the body naturally experiences a dip in alertness and focus. This is known as the ultradian dip.

During the ultradian dip, the brain's energy levels decrease, making it more difficult to concentrate and process information. However, this dip is a natural signal that the brain needs a break. Research has shown that taking breaks during the ultradian dip can actually improve cognitive function and productivity.

The Science of Fatigue and Focus

When we're working or studying, our brains use a significant amount of energy. This energy is fueled by glucose and oxygen, which are delivered to the brain through the bloodstream. However, when we push through a long period of intense focus, our energy stores begin to dwindle.

As we become fatigued, our brains start to experience a decrease in dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in motivation and focus. Without enough dopamine, we start to feel lethargic and unfocused, making it more difficult to learn and retain new information.

The Benefits of Breaks

So, why do breaks matter? Research has shown that taking regular breaks can have a significant impact on learning and productivity. Some of the benefits of breaks include:

• Improved focus: By taking a break, we can recharge our energy stores and come back to our work with a fresh perspective and improved focus.
• Increased productivity: Breaks can actually increase productivity by allowing us to return to our work with a renewed sense of motivation and energy.
• Enhanced creativity: Breaks can give us the opportunity to step away from our work and engage in activities that stimulate our creativity and imagination.
• Better memory retention: Breaks can help us retain new information by allowing us to consolidate it in our long-term memory.

The Best Ways to Take Breaks

So, how can students incorporate breaks into their daily routine? Here are some tips:

• Take a 10-15 minute break every 60-90 minutes: Use this time to stretch, move around, and relax.
• Engage in physical activity: Exercise is a great way to boost energy and improve focus.
• Do something enjoyable: Watch a funny video, read a book, or listen to music.
• Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes to focus on your breath and clear your mind.

Conclusion

Taking breaks is essential for learning and productivity. By understanding the science behind ultradian rhythms, fatigue, and focus, we can see how breaks can actually improve our academic success. By incorporating breaks into our daily routine, we can boost our energy, focus, and creativity, and ultimately achieve our academic goals. So, the next time you feel tired or unfocused, remember that a break is just what you need to get back on track.If you're looking for a powerful, student-friendly note-taking app, look no further than Oneboard. Designed to enhance your learning experience, Oneboard offers seamless handwriting and typing capabilities, intuitive organization features, and advanced tools to boost productivity. Whether you're annotating PDFs, organizing class notes, or brainstorming ideas, Oneboard simplifies it all with its user-focused design. Experience the best of digital note-taking and make your study sessions more effective with Oneboard. Download Oneboard on the App Store.