Last Updated on September 17, 2024 by Alexandra Markin
Wondering what things to do on a Pomodoro break that will actually help you recharge?
Those quick 5 minutes have been scientifically proven to increase your productivity when using the pomodoro technique for studying, so don’t skip them!
A study published by the British Journal of Educational Psychology and conducted by Biwer, F., Wiradhany, W., oude Egbrink, M. G. A., & de Bruin, A. B. H. (2023) found that students who “[Took] pre-determined, systematic breaks during a study session had mood benefits and appeared to have efficiency benefits (i.e., similar task completion in shorter time) over taking self-regulated breaks.”
In this post I list 10 ideas of things to do on your next 5 minute pomodoro break that help me recharge for my next focused session.
10 Things to do on a 5 minute Pomodoro Break
The whole idea of the 5 minute pomodoro break is to step away from your study area and give yourself a physical and mental break.
I don’t recommend scrolling social media, going on your phone, checking emails or watching YouTube videos – no technology that has the potential to suck you in.
5 MINUTE POMODORO BREAK TIP:
1. Step outside
Getting fresh air and sunshine (if the time of year allows) is the perfect contrast to sitting inside at your desk, even if that means wandering out to your patio and back in again.
2. Take a bathroom break
This one is obvious but if you’re drinking lots of fluids, you’ll probably need to spend a few of your pomodoro breaks doing this.
3. Make something to drink
Supporting the above, a few pomodoros in I find making an iced coffee with oat milk and a shot of vanilla syrup really helps replenish my energy levels.
You could also make a tea, matcha latte, electrolyte drink, hot chocolate – whatever feels rewarding for you.
4. Check-off some housework
Unloading the dishwasher, putting a load in the wash or doing a quick general tidy is a great way to counteract all your sitting while also being productive.
5. Do some quick stretches
Doing a few yoga flows or some stretching is great for keeping your body limber.
I find my upper back and shoulders get stiff from studying, so doing some stretches throughout the day helps keep ahead of it.
6. Grab a healthy snack
Grabbing a small but healthy snack, such as nuts and fruits, half a bagel with peanut butter and banana or cheese and crackers keeps you energized without weighing you down.
7. Practice deep breathing
Try some deep breathing exercises to relax and clear your mind.
One of my favourites is box breathing (4×4 breathing):
- Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds
- Hold the breath for 4 seconds
- Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds
- Hold the exhale for 4 seconds
- Repeat for 4 cycles
8. Listen to music
Whether you need something calming or uplifting, listing to a song or two can be a great 5 minute escape.
9. Play with your pet
This is a great way to spend time with your pet during your study day…when your cat isn’t walking across your keyboard during your 25 minute focus period.
10. Do some quick exercise
If you’re near the end of your 4-pomodoro cycle, you might need to do something active to get your blood flowing. Try jump rope, squats, pushups or any exercise that gets your heart rate up and your body moving.
If you have fitness goals you’re trying to achieve, every little bit counts!
Wrap Up
Whether you’re dancing around your room or listening to calming music, every break counts. The next time your timer goes off, make those 5 minutes fun, productive, and refreshing.
If you found this post helpful, sign up for my email list below and follow me on Instagram and Pinterest to join our online student community – you don’t have to go through your study journey alone!
What do you like to do during your short pomodoro breaks? Let me know in the comments!
