Although studying is important, taking a break is just as important in order to retain information. For every hour you study, you should be taking about a fifteen-minute break and be doing something completely unrelated to school. Here are twelve things you can do during your break.

1. Grab your favorite drink from a coffee shop.

Granted, you may not be able to complete this in fifteen minutes, but a change of scenery, walking to your favorite coffee shop and ordering your favorite drink will put you in a much better mood.

Bonus: If you can get to an Espresso Royale on a Wednesday, your coffee drink will only cost you $2. Every Wednesday, they have any size, any drink for $2

2. Paint your nails or go for a mani/pedi.

Nothing is more relaxing than getting your nails done. If you're worried about the cost, check out getting your nails done from other college students going into this industry.

3. Throw a load of laundry in the washing machine.

Okay. This may not seem like a "break" but it gets you away from your homework for a little bit and allows you to be productive at the same time.

4. Eat a piece of dark chocolate.

Eating dark chocolate has been proven to have multiple health benefits. A small piece will automatically put you in a better mood.

5. Have a mini shopping spree.

Again, this will most likely take more than fifteen minutes. However, this will combine cardio and take your mind off of your studies.

6. Organize your closet.

Again, this may not seem like a break. However, it will still allow you to be productive.

7. Light a candle.

By lighting a candle of a scent that you like, you will feel more relaxed. Also, if you continue to light the same candle each time you study, you will be more likely to remember the material.

8. Go for a run/walk.

One of the best ways to de-stress is to go for a run or walk. Combining fresh air and a chance to think more clearly will help you feel refreshed after spending time studying.

9. Journal.

Letting your thoughts, feelings, anger, and stresses out on paper will help you feel more at ease.

10. Play a boardgame, color, or complete a sudoku puzzle.

This study break can be especially useful if you only want to take a 10-15 minute break.

11. Spend some time at the gym.

As mentioned above, going to the gym is a great way to take a break well and will also allow you to get your daily exercise in.

12. Watch one episode of your favorite show.

A word of caution here: Only watch one episode. Binge watching your favorite tv show for five-ten hours won't get you very far and will most likely make you feel tired.