Have a undisclosed chocolate biscuit

It’s exam season, and we know it feels like there’s always one more thing to revise or one more essay to finish. The pressure is real, and it's easy to get caught up in the cycle of constant studying. But here’s a quick reminder: taking breaks is just as important as studying.

In fact, overworking and burning yourself out can actually make things harder in the long run. So let’s talk about why you really do need to take a break (and how it can actually help you perform better).

1. Your brain needs rest too

You wouldn’t try to run a marathon without taking a water break, right? The same goes for your brain. When you’re studying for hours on end without a break, your brain can get tired, and your focus drops. That means you might end up wasting time trying to push through.

By taking regular breaks, you’re giving your brain a chance to recharge, so when you get back to studying, you’ll be more focused and more productive. Simple as that.

2. Breaks help reduce stress

Working nonstop without a break is only going to increase that exam/assignment stress. Stepping away from your desk for a bit, whether it’s going for a walk, grabbing a coffee, or just sitting in silence for a few minutes, helps reset your stress levels. It’s like hitting the “refresh” button.

You might not think you have time for a break, but you can’t perform at your best if you’re constantly stressed and worn out. Your mind needs downtime to function properly.

3. A break doesn’t mean wasting time

Taking breaks doesn’t mean you’re being lazy. It means you’re working smarter, not harder. A good break could mean going outside for a walk, having a snack, doing a quick workout, or even chatting to a friend. These short breaks actually make it easier to come back to studying feeling refreshed and ready to tackle that next section of your notes.

4. Everyone feels this pressure

We know it might feel like everyone else is in "study mode" 24/7, but trust us, you’re not alone. Everyone gets stressed during exam season, and everyone feels the pressure to keep going. But remember, it’s okay to take a breather. Your friends and classmates are probably feeling the same, so don’t feel guilty for taking time to rest. In fact, talking to a friend or taking a break together could help both of you manage the stress!

5. Look after your body and mind

When you’re pushing yourself to the limit with nonstop studying, you might forget to look after yourself. But it’s crucial to make sure you're eating well, getting some exercise, and getting enough sleep. A tired body leads to a tired mind, and that’s not helpful when you’re trying to study.

• Try to eat regularly and choose healthy snacks to keep your energy up.
• Move around a bit, even if it's just a short walk or stretching.
• Sleep well – aim for a good night’s sleep. Your brain processes information while you sleep, so it’s just as important as study time.

6. You’ve got this

Exams are important, but your health and wellbeing should always come first. You’ve been working hard all year, so don’t burn out just before the finish line. Remember, you’re doing your best, and sometimes the best thing you can do is take a step back, relax, and recharge.

So, next time you’re feeling the pressure, take a deep breath, step away from your desk, and give yourself permission to take a break.

Take care of yourself and remember we’re all in this together (high school musical style).