17 answers
Salma
Student
Coopersburg, Pennsylvania
3
Questions
Asked
1386 views
As an online learner, how can I refresh my brain and continue to motivate myself?
Often times, I’ll be on my phone or computer doing schoolwork for so long that my eyes get blurry and my head hurts. So, that affects my speed and determination to get work done. I was wondering if you had any tips on how to relieve stress and refresh my brain.
In addition to study tips, I'm also looking for tips on how to stay healthy during this time and motivate myself to work out.
#studying #motivation
17 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Two Words Salma,
"Audio books"
There are many recognized benefits of audiobooks that make them suitable for many situations.
For instance you can listen to audiobooks while:
√ Cleaning
√ Walking
√ Biking
√ Dog Walking
Your Brain is a GREAT app, its time to upgrade it.
"Audio books"
There are many recognized benefits of audiobooks that make them suitable for many situations.
For instance you can listen to audiobooks while:
√ Cleaning
√ Walking
√ Biking
√ Dog Walking
Your Brain is a GREAT app, its time to upgrade it.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1750
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Hi Salma!
I recommend adding yet another course to your studies! It is Learning How to Learn, and it is free!
https://www.classcentral.com/course/learning-how-to-learn-2161
Sitting still for any length of time is bad for your body, and, using your eyes for any length of time causes eye strain, and headaches. And using your brain for more than 20 minutes on the same topic is ineffective. So, take breaks every 20 minutes! Get up, exercise, eat (in moderation!), drink (hydration is important to overall health!), clean house(?), etc.
Or, just change up what you are studying or how you are studying it. For example, a lot of school is learning facts and figures. Sit down with real paper and pen, and try to outline what you just learned. Or, give yourself a quiz, such as "compare and contrast the American Revolution with the Civil War." Those types of questions used to take me by surprise, because I never learned to actually think about what we were learning in HS. College was like, whoa! Unexpected!!
Anyway, you also want to remind yourself to blink while reading, use eyedrops if necessary, (or at least splash water on your eyes!) do some neck and back stretches, etc. Cold water on the back of the neck also makes you more alert! You can google for various stretches. Here is one link. https://ehs.ucsc.edu/programs/ergo/stretch.html
In summary, the way to do better while studying is to stop studying! You cannot push through when your brain and body are hollering "stop!"
Hope this helps!
Kim
I recommend adding yet another course to your studies! It is Learning How to Learn, and it is free!
https://www.classcentral.com/course/learning-how-to-learn-2161
Sitting still for any length of time is bad for your body, and, using your eyes for any length of time causes eye strain, and headaches. And using your brain for more than 20 minutes on the same topic is ineffective. So, take breaks every 20 minutes! Get up, exercise, eat (in moderation!), drink (hydration is important to overall health!), clean house(?), etc.
Or, just change up what you are studying or how you are studying it. For example, a lot of school is learning facts and figures. Sit down with real paper and pen, and try to outline what you just learned. Or, give yourself a quiz, such as "compare and contrast the American Revolution with the Civil War." Those types of questions used to take me by surprise, because I never learned to actually think about what we were learning in HS. College was like, whoa! Unexpected!!
Anyway, you also want to remind yourself to blink while reading, use eyedrops if necessary, (or at least splash water on your eyes!) do some neck and back stretches, etc. Cold water on the back of the neck also makes you more alert! You can google for various stretches. Here is one link. https://ehs.ucsc.edu/programs/ergo/stretch.html
In summary, the way to do better while studying is to stop studying! You cannot push through when your brain and body are hollering "stop!"
Hope this helps!
Kim
Thank you so much! I will take these tips into consideration and use them!
Salma
David Loi
Casino Marketing Executive Host
170
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
David’s Answer
You should not be spending too much time in front of a computer, if you do the side effect you have already mention headache plus eye blurry. I would recommend spending about several hours in front of a computer just to do schoolwork or you can try purchasing a screen protector so the UV light radiation, x-ray radiation, and EMF radiation will not affect your vision. As well take about minimum 15 to 30 minutes away from any computer, phone, tv, and etc. with UV light radiation, x-ray radiation, and EMF radiation, so you eye can rest up and then go back to do what you are doing. If it is a nice weather you can go out for a bit and come back to the computer screen as the light rays will help adjust back your vision.
As for motivation for staying healthy during this time, do you have any pets or you can do online exercise group with other people who is home. You can use zoom, which this is what everyone is using for video calling right now and/or set a daily work out time and schedule daily and you should be able to feel motivated in some way or you can ask someone to keep pushing you. Like a lot of people always use the term "Summer is about to be here, I need the body" and do a before and after or in progress photo as a way to motivated being healthy or toning or exercising.
As for motivation for staying healthy during this time, do you have any pets or you can do online exercise group with other people who is home. You can use zoom, which this is what everyone is using for video calling right now and/or set a daily work out time and schedule daily and you should be able to feel motivated in some way or you can ask someone to keep pushing you. Like a lot of people always use the term "Summer is about to be here, I need the body" and do a before and after or in progress photo as a way to motivated being healthy or toning or exercising.
Thank you for this advice! I will take it into consideration and use them!
Salma
Rodolfo Alora
Physical therapist
39
Answers
Springfield, Virginia
Updated
Rodolfo’s Answer
Pace yourself. Do 20 jumping jacks every 45 minutes of studying.
Write down your “why”s.
Avoid, decrease, eradicate any social media.
Ask yourself, does it really do you any good?
Write down your “why”s.
Avoid, decrease, eradicate any social media.
Ask yourself, does it really do you any good?
Nadia G
Psychologist, Coach & Career Advisor
64
Answers
Norway
Updated
Nadia’s Answer
Depending on your schedule and government restrictions in your area, try to find at least 1 activity that can be done without being online and sitting in front of a laptop. You can either do each of them for only a few minutes between your school tasks or "book" a dedicated slot after work.
Examples:
- learning something new (like knitting, drawing etc.), especially if it's far away from the thing that you do on a daily basis.
- creative writing.
- doing a crossword, playing board games, sudoku.
- learning a new language by reading a book, reading a newspaper or writing a letter (even if it won't be sent).
- sports: running, yoga, pilates, meditation.
Also, I would recommend to plan your day in advance, mainly to avoid overloading yourself and ensuring that you have time to relax and unwind.
Examples:
- learning something new (like knitting, drawing etc.), especially if it's far away from the thing that you do on a daily basis.
- creative writing.
- doing a crossword, playing board games, sudoku.
- learning a new language by reading a book, reading a newspaper or writing a letter (even if it won't be sent).
- sports: running, yoga, pilates, meditation.
Also, I would recommend to plan your day in advance, mainly to avoid overloading yourself and ensuring that you have time to relax and unwind.
Thank you so much for this advice!
Salma
Larry L. Duncan, Jr.
Technical Consultant
6
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Larry L.’s Answer
Hello Salma,
You are not alone, we all get so busy in performing our daily work task or studying that we get burned out. Ways to prevent this is to make sure that every 45 min or so you step away and take a small break, meaning if you are studying make sure you stop at least every 45 min if possible to give yourself and yourself brain a break.
When you just keep going without any breaks you can get headaches, motivation will decrease as you are now tired and when we become tired focus and motivation are the first things to be affected, make sure you take breaks.
There are many apps out there for mindfulness that you can research for mindfulness which can also help with stress and motivation.
To stay motivated to stay healthy I think about family to stay motivated, I think to myself that I want to be able to play with my kids and not be out of shape or not be able to keep up with them.
Even if you take a daily 30 min walk that is exercise, one reason people do not stay motivated to work out is that they set the bar so high for themselves they cannot attain their goal, start slowly and always have your favorite music to listen to while you work out that will help your motivation.
You are not alone, we all get so busy in performing our daily work task or studying that we get burned out. Ways to prevent this is to make sure that every 45 min or so you step away and take a small break, meaning if you are studying make sure you stop at least every 45 min if possible to give yourself and yourself brain a break.
When you just keep going without any breaks you can get headaches, motivation will decrease as you are now tired and when we become tired focus and motivation are the first things to be affected, make sure you take breaks.
There are many apps out there for mindfulness that you can research for mindfulness which can also help with stress and motivation.
To stay motivated to stay healthy I think about family to stay motivated, I think to myself that I want to be able to play with my kids and not be out of shape or not be able to keep up with them.
Even if you take a daily 30 min walk that is exercise, one reason people do not stay motivated to work out is that they set the bar so high for themselves they cannot attain their goal, start slowly and always have your favorite music to listen to while you work out that will help your motivation.
Thank you so much for your tips and advice! I will take this into consideration and try new things!
Salma
Christopher Branche
Accounting
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Salma,
This is a great question that you will always need to find a balance between. Sometimes if you work for extended period of time continuously, sometimes you can "burn" out. In economics, there is something called the law of diminishing marginal returns. In this case, sometimes the more hours you put in a short period of time, the less effective the studying will be. This may be the cause of some of your tiredness.
To avoid stress, it is always good to plan ahead and consider how long a project may take. This will reduce any uncertainty and break the assignment down into manageable pieces. I would recommend doing this as much as you can.
In terms of staying healthy, I always found physical exercise to be one of the best ways to relieve stress and refocus. Going for a run or even doing a quick guided workout helps. Reading about something you enjoy or having a quick conversation with someone are also good ways I found.
Hope this helps and good luck!
This is a great question that you will always need to find a balance between. Sometimes if you work for extended period of time continuously, sometimes you can "burn" out. In economics, there is something called the law of diminishing marginal returns. In this case, sometimes the more hours you put in a short period of time, the less effective the studying will be. This may be the cause of some of your tiredness.
To avoid stress, it is always good to plan ahead and consider how long a project may take. This will reduce any uncertainty and break the assignment down into manageable pieces. I would recommend doing this as much as you can.
In terms of staying healthy, I always found physical exercise to be one of the best ways to relieve stress and refocus. Going for a run or even doing a quick guided workout helps. Reading about something you enjoy or having a quick conversation with someone are also good ways I found.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Natalie Valerio
Human Resources
2
Answers
Orange, California
Updated
Natalie’s Answer
Hi Salma,
Lots of great suggestions here. I would also add that blue light blocking glasses may help with the headaches and eye strain that can occur from staring at bright screens for long periods of time.
Proper body mechanics and an ergonomic setup is equally important for working efficiently - for instance, making sure that the computer is at eye level and you are sitting upright, not slouching, avoiding text neck/leaning neck forward, all help with proper body mechanics which may help you and your body feel less tired.
If you work better in quieter environments, try to create that quiet area for yourself while studying or use noise cancelling headphones.
Or if you prefer studying to music, create or find a study playlist for yourself of fave songs that help you focus/would motivate you to workout, whether it is with upbeat dance music or lofi/chill/piano music etc. Listening to calmer music or genres you typically don't listen to while closing your eyes during a rest break can also act as a refresher for the brain.
Regards,
Natalie
Lots of great suggestions here. I would also add that blue light blocking glasses may help with the headaches and eye strain that can occur from staring at bright screens for long periods of time.
Proper body mechanics and an ergonomic setup is equally important for working efficiently - for instance, making sure that the computer is at eye level and you are sitting upright, not slouching, avoiding text neck/leaning neck forward, all help with proper body mechanics which may help you and your body feel less tired.
If you work better in quieter environments, try to create that quiet area for yourself while studying or use noise cancelling headphones.
Or if you prefer studying to music, create or find a study playlist for yourself of fave songs that help you focus/would motivate you to workout, whether it is with upbeat dance music or lofi/chill/piano music etc. Listening to calmer music or genres you typically don't listen to while closing your eyes during a rest break can also act as a refresher for the brain.
Regards,
Natalie
Thank you so much for the advice!
Salma
Of course! :) Hope it was helpful
Natalie Valerio
Kim Randel
Chief of Staff
3
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
This is a good question during a time that is new/different for all of us in the world. Make sure you get up and walk away from your phone/computer every hour, even if it's just for 3-5 minutes. It's very difficult to do sometimes, I have an app on my phone that reminds me every hour to get up and move for one minute. Seems silly, but sometimes I get focused on what I'm doing at work and when that reminder pops up, it's very helpful to just walk away to clear my head.
There are tons of videos on you tube for working out as well as many apps you can put on your phone, even just getting outside to walk is great exercise.
There are tons of videos on you tube for working out as well as many apps you can put on your phone, even just getting outside to walk is great exercise.
Amanda Lennon
HR Manager
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
I echo the advice above to drink water (especially chilled water), and take regular breaks to walk around and stretch. Look online for 5-10min yoga or stretching exercises- especially those that promote deep and intentional breathing, as well as heart/chest openers as studying can often cause bad hunching posture and shallow breathing. I also recommend eating small amounts every few hours. Even if you're not doing strenuous physical activity, your brain is still working very hard and needs regular (but moderate) intake of sugar and nutrients to keep alert and focused.
Thank you for the tips and tricks! I am going to take into consideration about eating and drinking! So important!
Salma
Clinton Dougher
Mechanical Engineer
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Clinton’s Answer
Hi Salma!
Great question. Staying in front of the computer for long periods of time is not only straining for the eyes but is bad for your overall health and mental clarity. What I recommend is to take frequent breaks- generally one per hour for 10-15 minutes. This break is to get away from the computer, go outside, take a brisk walk, grab a snack, just stay away from your phone and computer! Even small things like stretching and yoga can help increase focus and alertness.
I always took breaks during my long hours of cramming for engineering courses. Sometimes you get so focused you miss a break, and thats ok. You'll get into the rhythm of things as you move forward. Just remember to take them, get away from the computer and breathe. This time is also perfect to get in a quick workout, do some stretches. There are plenty of videos on Youtube of quick 5-10 min workouts at home, but don't wear yourself out too much!!
Hope this helps,
Clinton
Great question. Staying in front of the computer for long periods of time is not only straining for the eyes but is bad for your overall health and mental clarity. What I recommend is to take frequent breaks- generally one per hour for 10-15 minutes. This break is to get away from the computer, go outside, take a brisk walk, grab a snack, just stay away from your phone and computer! Even small things like stretching and yoga can help increase focus and alertness.
I always took breaks during my long hours of cramming for engineering courses. Sometimes you get so focused you miss a break, and thats ok. You'll get into the rhythm of things as you move forward. Just remember to take them, get away from the computer and breathe. This time is also perfect to get in a quick workout, do some stretches. There are plenty of videos on Youtube of quick 5-10 min workouts at home, but don't wear yourself out too much!!
Hope this helps,
Clinton
Thank you for the advice! I am going to use the “study for an hour/10-15 min. break” method you mentioned to relieve my stress!
Salma
Aicha Moustapha
Full time student & actress
40
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Aicha’s Answer
Hi Salma! These times can be rough since everything has been put online, so it is healthy when you can just take a step back from the computer for a minute. There is something called tomato timer online where you can work for 25 minutes and then it will tell you take a break for 5 or 10 minutes. I think this is good way for you to rest your eyes or get up and stretch while not taking too long of a break to where you feel lazy. You can also break your work into chunks like maybe one day you want to focus on one subject only. This may help you from being on the computer for too long to where your head is throbbing.
In terms of staying healthy, there are a lot of workout videos on YouTube that are specifically showing people how to work out at home so maybe you can pull this up on a TV or laptop and follow along. My personal favorite is a guy name "fitness marshall" because his workouts are easy dances that are fun and engaging.
I hope these help you !
In terms of staying healthy, there are a lot of workout videos on YouTube that are specifically showing people how to work out at home so maybe you can pull this up on a TV or laptop and follow along. My personal favorite is a guy name "fitness marshall" because his workouts are easy dances that are fun and engaging.
I hope these help you !
Thank you so much for these tips and tricks! I am going to use the app mentioned and see how I do!
Salma
Riley Carr
Business Analyst
179
Answers
Hollywood, Florida
Updated
Riley’s Answer
I totally suffer from the same things right now! Whenever I'm feeling foggy I try to just get outside for a little bit. During your workday, it is pretty easy to just take a 5-minute break to just take the trash out of or check the mailbox. I have found that just by getting outside for a few minutes and breathing some fresh air I can feel much more focused and not so groggy.
As for exercise, I try to end my workday around 4 PM, then either go for a walk around my neighborhood or go run on the treadmill for 30 minutes. By giving myself this 30-minute block of time being active outdoors, it gives my day structure (because I always shower and start cooking dinner when I get back) and keeps me active during the quarantine.
As for exercise, I try to end my workday around 4 PM, then either go for a walk around my neighborhood or go run on the treadmill for 30 minutes. By giving myself this 30-minute block of time being active outdoors, it gives my day structure (because I always shower and start cooking dinner when I get back) and keeps me active during the quarantine.
Haylee Layne
DPT Student
8
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Haylee’s Answer
Studying for hours on end is certainly stressful and most definitely draining! I find that staring at my computer for hours on end gives me the same affect, which is why I had to find a study routine that best suited me. Many people do something or fidget with something else in order to keep themselves on task. For me, I always have a cup of coffee or tea that I am drinking while I am studying in order to keep myself on task. I also listen to music in the background to make the studying a little more exciting. However, it is important that the music isn't distracting! I found that just instrumentals with no lyrics is the best thing to listen to while studying. I know a lot of people who love to have a snack right next to them as well or something to hold on to and play with as well. Sometimes sitting there and reading for hours on end will just put you straight to sleep if you don't have/do something else to keep your mind occupied. Lastly, it is important to remind yourself that it is okay to take breaks! I fell in love with yoga during my long studying days. There are many youtube videos that you can play in your room and you can follow a 10 minute yoga or workout routine that will take your mind off of studying for a little bit. Also, if you are looking to stay healthier during these times, I recommend waking up 1 hour earlier than you normally do or take out 1 hour in your day to workout. Even on days that you don't feel like it, once you start it will become easier and then after you will immediately feel better and refreshed. Hope this helps!
Padmapriya Vijayabhaskaran
Team Lead
24
Answers
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Updated
Padmapriya’s Answer
Hi Salma,
I would suggest to use the Pomodoro technique,
1. Choose a task you'd like to get done: Something big, something small, something you’ve been putting off for a million years: it doesn’t matter. What matters is that it’s something that deserves your full, undivided attention.
2. Set the Pomodoro for 25 minutes: Make a small oath to yourself: I will spend 25 minutes on this task and I will not interrupt myself. You can do it! After all, it’s just 25 minutes.
3. Work on the task until the Pomodoro rings: Immerse yourself in the task for the next 25 minutes. If you suddenly realize you have something else you need to do, write the task down on a sheet of paper.
4. When the Pomodoro rings, put a checkmark on a paper: You’ve spent an entire, interruption-less Pomodoro on a task.
5. Take a short break; Breathe, meditate, grab a cup of coffee, go for a short walk or do something else relaxing (i.e., not work-related). Your brain will thank you later.
6. Every 4 pomodoros, take a longer break: Once you’ve completed four pomodoros, you can take a longer break. 20 minutes is good. Or 30. Your brain will use this time to assimilate new information and rest before the next round of Pomodoros.: Learn how to work together with time, eliminate burnout, manage distractions and create a better work–life balance, using only a pen, some paper and a kitchen timer.
I advised my team to use this technique to manage time. It teaches you to work with time, instead of struggling against it, makes you more focused and even smarter.
Hope this helps.
I would suggest to use the Pomodoro technique,
1. Choose a task you'd like to get done: Something big, something small, something you’ve been putting off for a million years: it doesn’t matter. What matters is that it’s something that deserves your full, undivided attention.
2. Set the Pomodoro for 25 minutes: Make a small oath to yourself: I will spend 25 minutes on this task and I will not interrupt myself. You can do it! After all, it’s just 25 minutes.
3. Work on the task until the Pomodoro rings: Immerse yourself in the task for the next 25 minutes. If you suddenly realize you have something else you need to do, write the task down on a sheet of paper.
4. When the Pomodoro rings, put a checkmark on a paper: You’ve spent an entire, interruption-less Pomodoro on a task.
5. Take a short break; Breathe, meditate, grab a cup of coffee, go for a short walk or do something else relaxing (i.e., not work-related). Your brain will thank you later.
6. Every 4 pomodoros, take a longer break: Once you’ve completed four pomodoros, you can take a longer break. 20 minutes is good. Or 30. Your brain will use this time to assimilate new information and rest before the next round of Pomodoros.: Learn how to work together with time, eliminate burnout, manage distractions and create a better work–life balance, using only a pen, some paper and a kitchen timer.
I advised my team to use this technique to manage time. It teaches you to work with time, instead of struggling against it, makes you more focused and even smarter.
Hope this helps.
Danalila Pasumarti
college
3
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Danalila’s Answer
Hi Salma!
I feel you! It is difficult to motivate yourself to study virtually but there are few tips and tricks I try to follow. The first being trying to have your phone put away during class time like you would in live classroom setting. Secondly I would say find some small ways to motivate you like maybe post some quotes on the wall or keep them as you wallpaper on phone and laptop. I recently started doing this and I found it to help me. Another recommendation I have is to maybe try to create some sort of planner or schedule to help you stay motivated and excited about studying! Good luck, I am sure you got this!
I feel you! It is difficult to motivate yourself to study virtually but there are few tips and tricks I try to follow. The first being trying to have your phone put away during class time like you would in live classroom setting. Secondly I would say find some small ways to motivate you like maybe post some quotes on the wall or keep them as you wallpaper on phone and laptop. I recently started doing this and I found it to help me. Another recommendation I have is to maybe try to create some sort of planner or schedule to help you stay motivated and excited about studying! Good luck, I am sure you got this!
Alena Smigla, CPA, MSACC
CPA/Auditor
6
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Alena’s Answer
Hey Salma! I also get headaches/blurry eyes from staring at a computer all day. Taking a break to stand up and walk around for a minute every hour has really helped me - even if it's just walking into the kitchen to grab water or look out a window for a few seconds. Every 3 hours or so, I try to go for a quick walk outside or lay down with my eyes closed to let them rest. Also helps to try to limit tv/phone during 'free time' so your eyes can rest and recharge for school work
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