By In an era of glowing screens, humming fluorescent lights, and stuffy indoor spaces, we often overlook one of the simplest ways to clear the head: taking it outside.
Students hunch for hours over laptops in the library, classrooms, and dormitories, rarely considering the fact that the perfect place to study may simply be just outside the front door. Yet, studying outside is not simply a welcome change of scene – it can aid in greater concentration, reduced stress, and general improved health.
Research suggests that time in the outdoors confers important cognitive benefits. Daylight controls the body’s circadian rhythms, which means improved night sleep and more daytime vitality. Clean air increases oxygen supply to the brain, which has the potential to enhance concentration and memory. Even having your computer out in the shade under a tree can lower anxiety and stress levels.
It’s simple to get into a routine with your studying—the same table, the same chair, the same dimmed room. Study rooms and libraries do have their uses, but sometimes, they can get dull. It’s important to shake things up a bit—by stepping outside to a campus bench, a hidden park, or a sunny spot of light—that can make your study session more productive and enjoyable
Outdoor studying is as healthy for the body as the brain. Spring semester gets hectic, and between assignments, exams, and projects, many students barely move from their seats. Taking your studies outdoors encourages a little more physical activity, whether it’s a short walk before settling down with a book or just shifting your workspace to the fresh air.
Plus, a little sunshine means a boost of Vitamin D, which helps regulate mood and support your immune system.
Of course, not everything can be studied outside—some subjects require technology or equipment that’s not that portable. But whenever you can, take a page from nature’s book. But even small changes – reading on a bench instead of your dorm bed or memorizing notes at a picnic table – can pay off.
So, when temperatures increase, challenge yourself to get outside and work in the sunlight. You can discover that a little bit of sunlight and some fresh air are just what you need to stay sharp and keep your energy levels boosted.
