Taking a break over the festive period - a PGR perspective

With the upcoming Christmas break, and the closure of many areas of the University during this time, I wanted to make sure we shared the University opening times with you, and provide some tips for taking your own break.

Most University offices are closed from 20 December 2024 until 2 January 2025, but security will be available to help with University-related emergencies by calling 023 9284 3333.

You may decide to take a break from your research studies over the Christmas break; taking some time off allows your brain and body some time to recuperate, and you may find when you return to your research or studies, you are in a better position to work productively.

It can be difficult to take time off from your research; you may feel that you don’t have time to take a break, or when you do take a break, you feel guilty for not working. As a part-time research student, I often feel that I am not dedicating enough time to the work I need to do for my first taught module. However, research has shown that taking breaks can have a positive impact on wellbeing and productivity, so I wanted to share some tips that might help you when planning and taking breaks:

1. Plan when you are going to take breaks, and stick to it. Add your breaks to your calendar or schedule and let your supervisors and colleagues know when you are planning to take longer breaks - this will allow you to plan for any deadlines or other activities that might be time-sensitive.
2. Notice how you feel when you are taking a break. Pay particular attention to any positive feelings or benefits you experience. Remembering these can help motivate you to take breaks in the future. If you find you are constantly thinking about your work when on a break, try to bring your focus back to the activity you are doing, or choose an activity that requires some concentration. I find dance classes really help take my mind off my work as I am focussing so hard on the dance steps, I don’t have time to think about anything else!
3. Techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and take short breaks in between, can help you work more efficiently and ensure you take regular breaks whilst working. There are loads of Apps that you can use too, such as the Be Focused – Pomodoro Timer App for Apple devices, or the Focus To-Do: Pomodoro Timer & To Do List Chrome extension.
4. Create a list of things you need to do, and prioritise what needs to be done before your break, and what can wait. The Eisenhower Matrix can help you to prioritise your to-do list.
5. If you can (and want to), plan activities for your breaks, such as going for a walk or meeting friends or colleagues for lunch/coffee. I live close to the River Hamble, and plan an early morning walk once a week, often with my camera in hand. I have noticed that these walks really help to clear my mind, and provide me with the focus and energy I need to concentrate on my (ever increasing) reading list!
6. It’s OK to do nothing when taking a break. Your breaks should be spent how you want, there is no right or wrong.

If you are in Portsmouth over the break, there are lots of green spaces to explore, and Ravelin Sports Centre will be open on most days during the break. If you haven't already, the PGR Society is free to join at any time - created and coordinated by research students, the society aims to bring together research students from all walks of life.

You can also find resources from the Wellbeing Thesis, an online wellbeing, learning and research resource for postgraduate research students, and the University's Student Wellbeing Service provides confidential support and advice.

Myself and the rest of the Graduate School Team hope that you are able to plan some time-off, and enjoy some rest over the break.

Emma

Emma Cripps is the Graduate School's eLearning Coordinator and is also undertaking a Professional Doctorate in Education.