The Connection Between Movement Breaks and Mental Health

In today's ever-changing education system, the spotlight is increasingly turning to the holistic development of students. Test scores and academic rigor remain important however, a growing body of research highlights a crucial element often overlooked: movement breaks in schools. The need for structured and purposeful physical activities in the classroom has never been more important. Sedentary classrooms and increasing screen time are becoming the norm. In this guide we'll discuss the reasons why moving breaks should be a cornerstone of any school's daily routine and uncover the science of the benefits of these breaks, and present actionable strategies for educators and administrators.

What are movement breaks at schools?

Motion breaks--also known as breaks for the brain break, activity breaks or physical activity breaks are short periods within the school day when students are encouraged to engage in physical activities. These breaks can range from just a few minutes of stretching or dancing to more structured games, exercises or mindfulness exercises which require moving. The movement breaks, unlike classes in physical education, which follow a curriculum, are frequent, short interruptions of classes that are sedentary. They aid in refocusing students' minds and reenergize them.

Examples of Movement Breaks

• In place running or jumping over jacks
• Yoga poses or stretching
• Quick dance routines
• Brain gym activities
• Group games that involve movement
• Breathing guided by a guide, paired with gentle movement

The reason why movement breaks are important: The Science

1. Physical Health Benefits

One of the main reasons to incorporate breaks into your routine is the positive effect they have on physical health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Children and adolescents should participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activities each day. A majority of students fail to adhere to this advice because they spend long hours in school.

Movement Breaks in Schools Provide a variety of health benefits

• Improve your cardiovascular fitness
• Increase flexibility and muscle strength
• Weight management: Support healthy weight loss
• Fighting childhood obesity

Regular exercise improves your immune system and encourages lifestyle changes that are healthy for your future.

2. Advantages to the Brain and Education

Contrary to the notion that spending more time in school will result in better performance studies show that integrating breaks for movement can increase the academic level. Physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain, delivering nutrients and oxygen that are crucial to cognitive function.

The most important benefits for academics include:

• Increased focus and attention
• Memory retention is enhanced
• Better problem-solving skills
• Engagement and participation
• More focused the amount of time spent on task.

According to research, students who take movement breaks are more focused and score higher than those who do not.

3. Mental and Emotional Well-being

Mental health is a concern that is a concern for many students. Anxiety, stress and depression affect many students who are in school. Movement breaks play a significant role in helping to regulate emotions and mental well-being.

Emotional Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and anxiety
• Self-esteem and improved mood
• Endorphins are released to give you a feeling of happiness
• Opportunities for social interaction and collaboration

Physical activity during school hours provides an outlet for the accumulated energy, frustration or anxiety, assisting to create a more positive classroom environment.

Movement Breaks Support All Learners

Supporting Diverse Learning Needs

Students who suffer from ADHD, sensory processing issues or other disabilities may benefit from a break in their movement. Students with these conditions benefit from physical activity by regulating their energy levels, enhancing their executive functioning and completing academic tasks.

Designing inclusive classrooms

Movement breaks are easily modified to meet the needs of various age groups, abilities and learning styles. The types of breaks offered vary from simple stretches on the chair through interactive group exercises. They ensure that each student can succeed.

How do you incorporate breaks for movement into your schedule

Teachers can profit from this resource

• Make a plan: Incorporate movement breaks every 30-60 minutes, especially in long blocks of instruction.
• It's easy. Choose routines that are simple to perform and require no equipment or preparation.
• Fun: Integrate music, storytelling, or other themes that keep students engaged.
• Involve students: Have students choose or lead their preferred exercise.

For Administrators

• Gain support: Inform staff and their families of the benefits of taking breaks for movement.
• Create policies: Encourage or mandate daily movement breaks school-wide.
• Professional Development: Provide teachers with training and resources to lead breaks with confidence.
• Follow the progress: Collect feedback and record outcomes to help refine methods.

for Hybrid or Remote Learning

Virtual learning is not any different. Breaks for movement are equally important. Teachers can conduct live activities through video calls, or give movement-related challenges to students to work on at home.

Addressing Common Concerns

Do movement breaks eat up time in the class?

On the contrary studies show that students who regularly move are more focused, less disruptive, and more efficient during lessons. Breaks for movement are an investment in learning, not a distraction.

"How can we create time for movement in an already packed schedule?"

You can incorporate short breaks (between 2-5 minutes) into your schedule for transitions between topics or after an intense focus. Even a short amount of activity can have noticeable advantages.

What happens if the space in which that we have available is not enough?

Many activities that require only a little space or are done standing beside desks. In small classrooms, seated stretching, chair-yoga or just simple hand and arm movements can be effective.

The Effects of Movement Breaks on the school culture

The importance of integrating movement breaks isn't only about personal benefits, it's about creating the school's culture of health, well-being, and lifelong learning. Schools that focus on the importance of movement are more likely to experience:

• Healthier overall for students and less absences
• The spirit of school and involvement in the community are boosted
• Burnout and teacher satisfaction rates lower
• Higher academic performance

The timing of your breaks for exercise can be synchronized with other wellness initiatives, such as social-emotional learning, nutrition education, and programs that combat bullying.

Tips to get started

1. Start small: Begin with one or two breaks during the day and build from there.
2. Keep it constant. Include movement in your routine.
3. Make it your own: Rotate activities to keep students interested and engaged.
4. Get feedback from students and teachers: Request input and suggestions.
5. Celebrate success: Recognize classrooms and students who are enthusiastically involved.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often should schools institute movement breaks?

The majority of experts recommend a break every 30-60 minutes but the frequency can be adjusted to fit the specific needs of each school.

Can movement breaks replace PE classes?

No. Breaks for movement are a complement to, not a substitute for, structured physical education.

Is it appropriate for all ages of children?

Yes! Yes!

Do movement breaks require special equipment?

Not at all. Certain of the most effective movements require minimal or no equipment, like scarves, music, or balls.

Integrating breaks to move into each school day could provide a broad range of benefits. From boosting academic performance and physical health, to promoting mental well-being and classroom behavior, the research is clear that movement is crucial. You can invest in the future of your children, whether you are an administrator or teacher as well as a parent or politician.

Include movement as an integral part of the school experience for all students. Learners develop and prosper when they move.