Since zoom and other video conferencing apps have become our classrooms in 2020, there is no way to avoid them. What we can avoid is the mental exertion that stems from Zoom Fatigue when we sit in front of the camera for a prolonged period of time. Here are 5 ways to avoid burning out during one of the most crucial times of the year:
- Build in Breaks
Take a moment for yourself. Go stretch or drink a glass of water – even if it is in the middle of a class. In order to avoid burning out and ensuring that you are paying attention to the lecture, it is important to nurture yourself. Turning the camera off for 2 minutes in the middle of the lecture won’t hurt anybody!
- Schedule Smart
Classes are not the only thing keeping us glued to the screens. Many of our meetings for internships and extracurricular activities have been shifted online. If possible, avoid scheduling video meetings back to back. Try to keep at least a 20-30 minute gap in between your meetings. Of course, in addition to zoom fatigue, prolonged screen exposure will harm your vision.
- Shifting Spots
While we are restricted within the walls of our home, we can shift our location within our home to escape the monotony. According to an article published in Psychology Today, it is important to differentiate between your “home area” and “office area” even if the two are in close proximity to each other. If we sleep and attend classes on our bed, it confuses our brain. Our brain is wired to think that the bed is the area for rest. This prevents us from being able to grasp information, and vice-versa, it can result in poor sleep habits.
- Minimize Multitasking
While you are in a video meeting, avoid trying to complete other tasks. Close all tabs on your computer that are unrelated to the meeting. According to a study conducted at Stanford University, those who attempt to multitask retain less information than those who focus on one task at a time. If you are unable to retain information, you are bound to feel frustrated and this can negatively impact your performance. In order to avoid the unnecessary tension, focus on one task at a time.
- Self-care Sunday (or Saturday or any day!)
Schedule one day in a week which is entirely zoom-free. Make sure to use this day to recharge for the rest of the week. Some ways to do so is by eating nutritious meals, catching up on sleep and most importantly, spending time with your loved ones (with precautions) and spending time in nature. As the name suggests, nature deprivation refers to negative mental effects due to the lack of exposure to nature. Make sure you spend an adequate amount of time outdoors whether that includes going for bike rides, hikes or walks!