The flexibility and convenience of studying from home are hallmarks of an Anglia Ruskin Distance Learning degree.
And although our courses are designed to slot smoothly into busy lifestyles, it’s still important to prepare effectively to maintain physical and mental wellbeing throughout your academic journey.
These top 10 tips will help you establish the healthy habits which supercharge success.
1. Set up a study space
Separate yourself from the domestic domain by creating a dedicated study space with good natural lighting, removed from noise and distractions. This will help you enter a positive headspace for high performance.
2. Clean desk policy
A desk that’s cluttered with books, papers and biscuit crumbs can increase your stress levels and distract you from the task at hand. Clearing the mess before you commence work catalyses mental clarity as well as physical cleanliness.
3. Choose a comfortable chair
Sitting on an uncomfortable chair for prolonged periods can cause poor posture and associated health conditions – invest in an ergonomic model which moulds to your body and provides the appropriate support.
4. Rest your eyes
Staring at a computer screen all day can lead to eye strain, the symptoms of which include headaches and blurred vision. To minimise the risk and rest your eyes, shift your focus occasionally by gazing out of the window or at the wall for a minute or so.
5. Take breaks
Aim to have a few minutes away from your desk every hour in order to stretch your muscles and take a little walk – according to Psychology Today, taking regular breaks improves performance and boosts energy.
6. Control your environment
Unlike university study rooms and corporate offices, you have complete control over your working conditions at home. So capitalise on this opportunity by ensuring the temperature, light and general ambience all fit your personal Feng Shui and enhance mental focus.
7. Snacks and drinks
It’s easy to become so consumed by your studies that you forget about nutritious food and drink. So make sure you’ve stocked up on healthy choices such as fruit, nuts and water, which maintain energy levels and boost your brainpower.
8. Optimise study time
Everyone’s performance peaks at slightly different times of the day and flexible learning allows you to optimise your learning time. So figure out when your studying stars are aligned and save the coursework tasks which require most concentration for this sweet spot.
9. Get enough sleep
When you’re balancing a busy work schedule with a home and social life, sleep deprivation can creep in – with its belligerent bedfellows fatigue, depression and reduced motivation.
The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults aged between 18-64 get between 7-9 hours’ sleep per day — be sure you’re clocking up sufficient shut eye to stay sharp.
10. Use your social support system
When you’re working from home, don’t feel isolated – stay properly plugged into your social support system of family and friends by chatting online, taking time for phone calls and meeting in person.
Alternatively, connect with classmates working remotely, because wherever they are in the world, they’re perfectly placed to empathise and provide support.
Our Top 10 health tips when you study at home keep your mind and body balanced until graduation and beyond — integrate them in your regime today.
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