Why breaks are essential for good concentration of student

No, taking a break doesn’t waste time… on the contrary.“The human brain is like a battery: the more you use it, the more it needs recharging.”In a world that glorifies productivity and treats “efficiency” as a mantra, taking a break is often seen as a waste of time. Among students, this belief is even more ingrained: “study nonstop,” “review until midnight,” “never let up.” But science is unequivocal: an exhausted brain doesn’t work better—it works poorly.

What cognitive psychology tells us about concentration

Our brain isn't built to stay focused continuously. Neuroscience studies have identified several natural limits:

• Ultradian cycle: every 90 minutes, our brain needs a break to regenerate.

• Working memory decline after 20–30 minutes of intense effort.

• Attention saturation: the more you push, the more your focus scatters.

Concentration works like a muscle: it needs cycles of tension and release.

Take a break to boost your performance

Concrete benefits of a well-timed break

• Reduced stress and mental fatigueA proper break lowers cortisol levels and sharpens mental clarity.

• Better memory consolidationMemory often strengthens in between work sessions.

• Renewed energy and focusBreaks stimulate the brain’s default mode network—good for creativity and reflection.

• Prevention of cognitive overloadFour focused sessions of 45 minutes are more effective than one 3‑hour marathon.

What is a “good” break?

A good break is not one that exhausts you (like endlessly scrolling TikTok). It’s one that reconnects you with yourself, your body, or the present moment.Examples include:

• A 5–10 minute walk outdoors

• Drinking a glass of water without your phone

• Deep breathing or quick meditation

• Doing some light stretches

• Laughing, chatting, listening to soothing music

Even just three minutes can be enough. The key is to interrupt the flow.

How to integrate breaks into a student’s day

• Schedule them in your agenda as tasks in their own right

• Use the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes work / 5 minutes break

• Honor natural biological breaks: morning, afternoon, evening pauses

• Conduct a daily review: when were you most effective? Did you breathe properly?

“Taking a break is knowing how to work smart.”

At ESPÉ (École Supérieure de Psychologie Européenne), we believe that effective learning respects both biological and emotional rhythms. Our students are trained in the psychology of learning, attention regulation, and awareness of their own cognitive functioning. We don’t subscribe to forced productivity. We train professionals to work with their brains, not against them.

Joining ESPÉ means choosing a school that values knowledge as much as self-care and listening.