#WellbeingWednesday: Making the most of your breaks; both long and short

By Steven Luu and Daniel Kim

When taking time off from study and work, to truly enjoy it, the most important thing is getting your head in the right place and completely forgetting about your responsibilities (for now). There’s no point taking a break if that 2000 word essay is at the back of your head for the entire time.

How do you do that?

Planning your time wisely is probably the most ‘effective cliché’. Be confident that the time you have allocated away from work would maximise your productivity during the time you dedicate for actual work (which you don’t have to worry about because you’ve planned it).

A guilt-free break is the secret to genuinely rejuvenate, re-energise and stay motivated.

Ideas for things to do:

  • Quick-drives: Whether you actually have somewhere to be or aimlessly cruising around, driving can be a cathartic experience (especially around midnight when you literally own the road). On the same note, picking up your mate for a quick Maccas run can never go wrong
  • Netflix: The key here is CONTROL. One episode of Game of Thrones between your morning and afternoon study block gives you something to look forward to and wind down a bit before soldiering on
  • Board-game: Not only is it a good break idea, but you also get to do a quick detox and interact with either family or friends and be away from the screen for a bit. Whether it’s a heated game of UNO or some strategic Battleship, board games are great to relax.
Family Time Board Game GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
  • Brunch: Organise a study sesh and before that, go to a fancy brunch spot that you’ve been dying to try. It’s scientifically proven (‘Science of Eating’ (2019) 1 Just Kidding (Don’t sue me) Journal 123) that aesthetically pleasing food boosts intelligence and memory!

Inspo: https://www.vogue.com.au/travel/experiences/the-best-places-to-get-brunch-in-sydney/image-gallery/1f5218bcbe6a2d1e718a625cc90639d6?pos=2

Dog Human Eating GIF - Find & Share on GIPHY
  • Jog: Getting out there and moving a bit is always neglected during intense exam periods, but sports is a great way to de-stress
  • Coastal walks: Make the most of the beautiful coastline that we’re blessed with in Sydney! There are so many great coastal walks that give you a chance to get a healthy dose of exercise and fresh air, all while you can enjoy some amazing views. The Bondi to Coogee, Rose Bay to Watson Bay, and Bondi to Bronte walks are great examples to check out!

Inspo: https://www.buzzfeed.com/gyanyankovich/walkin-all-over-sydney

  • Road trip: The best thing about this option is how spontaneously you can do it. You don’t need to book any flights, or even necessarily any accommodation; all you need is a car and some mates! Pick a getaway location and bond with your friends over some tunes, snacks, or just enjoy the scenery!
  • Travelling: This is for those who want to get away, but don’t like the idea of being in a car for over an hour! With thousands of domestic and international locations available, you are limited only by your imagination (and budget).

If all else fails…a re-energising nap can never go wrong!


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