Boosting Learning: The Effect of Breaks on Memory and Performance

In our quest for mastery and skill, we are often tempted to dive headfirst into our studies or work, believing that the more time and effort we invest, the better the results will be. However, the science is clear: taking regular breaks while learning is essential—even necessary—for optimizing brain performance. In this article, we’ll learn more about the effect of breaks on learning, and how to boost learning with strategic breaks. We’ll draw on solid scientific research to support our points.

When we immerse ourselves deeply in a task or a subject we’re learning, our brain quickly becomes fatigued—much sooner than we might think! This mental fatigue is the result of cognitive overload, where our ability to process information effectively gradually declines. When learning a task, we engage our working memory. But if we exceed its capacity, the cognitive load becomes overwhelming; not only do our concentration and reasoning abilities decline, but so does our ability to retain and process new information.

When we take regular breaks while studying, the goal isn’t simply to “switch off” or just rest. On the contrary, breaks are an essential part of the memory consolidation process. In other words, the brain needs breaks to consolidate information.

This was the conclusion reached by neuroscientist Leonardo Cohen in a 2021 study, in which he measured students’ brain activity during a training session and then during breaks. Remarkably, the data showed that even when the brain was not actively engaged in learning, it was intensively processing and replaying what it had just seen. This is known as long-term memory consolidation.

Taking a break helps us process information, as we’ve just seen. Additionally, stepping back from a problem can stimulate creativity and problem-solving. By stepping back and letting our minds wander during breaks, we activate different neural networks. This promotes divergent thinking and the generation of innovative ideas. This is how breaks affect memory.

To get the most out of breaks while studying, let’s adopt strategies that work for our brains. Taking 5-minute breaks every 25 to 30 minutes helps maintain optimal concentration and cognitive performance. But what should you do during these breaks? Simply take a few steps and walk for 5 minutes; or close your eyes and do some deep breathing exercises; or meditate; and for your body, stretch and relax the muscles that have been in the same position. In short, take a Yogist break!

At Yogist, we’re proud of what we’ve implemented for one of our clients, the Crédit Agricole Group. They have an e-learning program integrated into an online course called “Digit’Academy.” Yogist pops up every 25 minutes, encouraging participants to take a physical and/or mental break. The idea is to relax, stretch, recharge, and improve concentration before resuming the learning session. And while we’re applying the benefits of breaks here in the workplace, we’re more than convinced of their value in the school setting through the “Well At School” program. With this project, we aim to combat sedentary behavior at school and thereby promote learning and concentration.

We aren’t machines. Swallowing up endless amounts of e-learning content, theoretical and practical principles while sitting in front of a screen, memorizing facts without giving our brains a chance to rest… none of that is actually productive. Scientific studies are unequivocal about the effect of breaks on memory. More specifically, they all show that breaks:

By strategically incorporating breaks into our study or work routine, we can not only improve our performance but also promote more effective and lasting learning.