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It’s finals week, and you’re bound to be sick of studying. Going on your phone or watching Netflix while doing homework can slow you down, so it’s best to focus for designated periods of time and take small study breaks in between. Additionally, sitting all day can lead to blood clots, so you want to get up and move a little bit when you take a break. This means that Instagram and Netflix aren’t always the right answer when it comes to closing the books for a bit! Here are 5 study break ideas that will get you up and moving:
1. Go for a walk
Take little walk around the Lincoln Park neighborhood! There are so many pretty houses and hearing the birds chirp can be relaxing. It can be fun to explore somewhere you have never seen and admire the architecture. It’s understandable if you need a break from Lincoln Park. Walk around the Gold Coast neighborhood and admire all of the mansions. If you’re lucky, someone will be walking their dog, and you’ll get to pet a cute pooch.
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2. Take a class at the Ray
There’s no better way to get up and moving than going to the gym! The Ray has classes almost every hour from 7am-7pm on weekdays. Most classes are only 45 minutes long, so it’s a great way to let off a little steam (from being 1000% over finals) and get some movement in your sedentary day at the library.
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3. Have a mini dance party
If you’re studying alone in your dorm, set a timer for an hour and every time it goes off get up and dance! Even three minutes of movin’ and groovin’ will help blood flow. Make a little playlist for yourself of motivating songs. It will take your mind off of studying, even if just for a few minutes, and boost your mood. Grab that hairbrush and sing it, girl (but not so loud that your neighbors hear!)
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4. Take a bike ride
Put the pedal to the metal and take a bike ride! Bike away from your responsibilities (not forever, though!) and let the wind blow through your hair. But be sure to wear a helmet because Chicago traffic is wild. If you don’t own a bike, have no fear – Divvy bikes are here! There is a Divvy bike station right across from Whole Foods in Lincoln Park. It’s $3 for a single 30-minute ride, and an additional $3 for each additional 30 minutes. However, 30 minutes is a perfect study break. Throw a speaker in your backpack so you have some fun tunes and go explore!
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5. Go shopping
Yes, you heard me! Walking around a mall is a good way to get the blood flowing. Do this at the end of the week and get yourself a little treat, whether it be a new shirt or some frozen yogurt. If you want, bring friends! I’m sure they need a break from homework too. Shopping for a well-deserved treat – either alone or with friends – is a great way to let your brain breathe after all that cramming.
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