Juggling classes, work, family, and your social life can feel like a never-ending marathon. With so much going on, it's important to take regular study breaks to recharge your brain and body.

Here are some tips to help you incorporate study breaks into your busy college schedule: 

• Schedule Breaks: Plan your study breaks ahead of time and treat them as essential appointments in your calendar. This will ensure you make time for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst your hectic routine. 
• Quick Breaks: Take advantage of short breaks between classes to go for a quick walk or find a peaceful place on campus to meditate. 
• Nature-Inspired Study Spaces: If you can't step away from your studies, consider using nature-inspired study spaces, like the Riverpark at the back of the college, or the new tables and umbrellas around the campus, to enjoy the outdoors while completing assignments. 

Chattanooga is a relatively mild-climate city that provides lots of opportunities to get outdoors; getting outdoors during these breaks offers significant benefits, such as managing stress, improving mood, and enhancing brain function. Lisa Nisbet, Ph.D., a psychologist at Trent University in Ontario, Canada, who studies connectedness to nature, says, “You can boost your mood just by walking in nature, even in urban nature. And the sense of connection you have with the natural world seems to contribute to happiness even when you’re not physically immersed in nature.” (Weir, 2020)

Consider getting outside for much-needed mental breaks. We are fortunate at ChattState to be located next to the Tennessee River and a nationally recognized Riverwalk. As such, suggestions 1 and 2 can be accomplished right here while you’re on campus when you may need a break from your classes or studies or to help enhance your cognitive function. 

• Leisurely Strolls and Picnics: Take advantage of campus green spaces and the Riverpark and Riverwalk directly behind the campus by going for a leisurely walk or having a picnic with friends. These low-intensity activities provide an opportunity to enjoy nature, clear your mind, and engage in light physical exercise, which can boost endorphin levels and improve mood. 
• Yoga and Meditation: Practice yoga or meditation in an outdoor setting to combine the benefits of mindfulness with the restorative power of nature. Seek out peaceful spots on campus, like a quiet garden or a shady grove, to stretch, breathe, and clear your mind. 
• Cycling: Biking is a great way to get fresh air, explore your surroundings, and exercise simultaneously. Ride around on the Riverwalk, discover local bike trails, or join a cycling club to make new friends who share your passion. Don’t have a bike? You can rent a bike at the Hubert Fry section and Curtain Pole entrance of the Riverpark. 
• Trail Running and Hiking: For a more adventurous study break, explore nearby trails or nature reserves through trail running or hiking. These activities offer an intense workout, help to relieve stress, and allow you to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. 
• Rock Climbing: Rock climbing, whether indoors or outdoors, is a fun and challenging way to develop strength, flexibility, and problem-solving skills. Look for climbing gyms or outdoor climbing spots, and consider joining a climbing club to learn from experienced climbers.  

To make the most of these outdoor study break ideas, create a personalized routine that suits your individual needs and preferences. Start by experimenting with different activities to determine which ones you enjoy the most, and consider factors such as time constraints, physical fitness, and proximity to nature when making your decision. 

By incorporating outdoor study breaks into your college routine, you can effectively manage stress, improve your mood, and enhance cognitive functioning, leading to better academic performance and a more balanced lifestyle. So, step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and make the most of the great outdoors! 

Meet Your Goals at ChattState

• Set Up a Calendar
• Set SMART Goals
• Have a Growth Mindset
• Set Breaks and Self-Care
• Take Good Notes

Weir, K. (2020, April 1). Nurtured by Nature. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature