New technology has transformed the education sector over the years. One of the most notable advancements in education is the introduction of online learning. Students now have access to an impressive variety of online courses and qualifications that offer greater flexibility and self-paced learning. This has made education far more accessible and convenient for those who have commitments stopping them from enrolling in traditional classroom courses.
However, while remote learning offers plenty of potential benefits, it can also present some challenges. For instance, successful online learning requires high levels of motivation and many students experience feelings of isolation or loneliness while studying online. Remote students must plan their learning carefully and pay special attention to their physical and emotional health. Here are five steps to help you stay healthy while studying at home.
Step 1: Create a study schedule
As mentioned, one of the biggest advantages of studying online is that it allows much greater flexibility when it comes to your study schedule. However, you shouldn't use this as an excuse to slack on your learning. Having a study schedule will help you get into a routine and motivate you to complete your learning tasks efficiently.
According to advice on intelligent.com: "Creating a study plan will also allow you to assess how you spend your time, and ensure that you have enough time set aside to complete your assignments and meet your deadlines." Your study plan should be tailored to your course and learning objectives. For example, Baylor University's online accelerated BSN programs for non nurses will require you to plan for various online assessments as well as clinical placements. Overall, having a study plan will help you organize your learning and guide you towards your learning goals. This, in turn, will help keep you healthy and productive by reducing any study-related stress.
Step 2: Invest in an ergonomic chair
Sitting for long periods in a poor-quality chair can lead to various health issues including back and shoulder pain. For that reason, you must invest in a quality ergonomic one that will encourage good posture and provide you with sufficient support. Sitting comfortably will help you stay focused on your learning tasks for longer which will improve your academic performance in the long run.
You can search online for information on some of the best ergonomic chairs available on the market. Take the time to read customer reviews and purchase a chair from a reputable brand. You should also pay attention to maintaining a good posture while studying. For instance, you should sit up straight with both feet flat on the floor. Try to avoid leaning forwards or hunching over your desk. Maintaining a good posture will help you stay healthy and comfortable while studying for long periods.
Step 3: Take adequate breaks
Working non-stop can cause stress and lead to feelings of exhaustion and burnout. Trying to learn too much information in one go or 'cramming' can also make it more difficult for you to retain information effectively. For that reason, you must factor adequate breaks into your learning schedule and take a breather from learning whenever you start to feel tired or frustrated.
Research suggests that you should take a 10-minute break for every 50 minutes of studying. This will give you a chance to unwind and recharge before continuing with your learning tasks. Use your study break to get some fresh air, communicate with loved ones, or enjoy an energy-rich snack. Taking regular breaks will help to boost your motivation levels and make you more productive and successful in the long run.
Step 4: Get some exercise
Regular exercise offers a wealth of health benefits. On a physical level, exercise helps you prevent unwanted weight gain and maintain good fitness levels. Being active will also have a positive effect on your emotional well-being as exercise has been shown to boost mood and lower stress and anxiety.
You should aim to do around 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. Introduce some daily exercise into your routine by going out for walks, doing home workout DVDs, or going to the gym with a friend. Getting out of the house and being active is especially important when you are spending the majority of your day sitting in front of a laptop or computer screen. Following a regular exercise routine will help you maintain good health while studying from home.
Step 5: Enjoy healthy foods
When you are studying from home, it can be tempting to reach for convenient processed foods such as crisps and chocolate bars. These items may give you a quick energy boost, but they will not benefit you long term. Eating unhealthy junk foods can result in unwanted weight gain, mood swings, and various health issues including type 2 diabetes.
You should therefore make your health a priority by following a nutritious diet that includes the recommended quantities of different food groups. If you are busy studying during the week, then cooking your meals in bulk can be an easy way to save time. Prepare healthy meals at the weekend and then store them securely in your fridge to eat during the week. There are plenty of cooking blogs offering quick and easy recipes for students. Some healthy recipes to try include curries, stir fry, casseroles, and pasta dishes. If you are struggling to get the recommended vitamins and minerals in your diet, then you should consider taking a quality daily supplement to boost your health.
Summary
Remote learning has opened up huge opportunities within education, particularly for people who are unable to attend traditional classroom-based courses. Online courses provide a greater degree of flexibility and allow students to tailor their learning to their preferences. Some other key benefits of online courses include lower costs and access to a wider variety of qualifications. That said, studying remotely can be challenging and you must plan carefully for online learning success. Follow the above steps to ensure that you stay healthy, happy, and productive while studying at home.
