How to Actually Stay Awake in Your Zoom Classes

Is anyone else unpleasantly surprised by how hard it is to stay awake in online classes? I assumed I would be well-rested and wide awake for my Zoom classes, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. It’s been hard to keep my eyes open, and since failing my classes isn’t an option, I knew I had to do something about it.

So many tips online are things I would never do, like going on a run before my 8 a.m. or waking up at the same time everyday (there’s just no way I’m not sleeping in on Sunday), so here are my top tricks—that you’ll actually want to try—for staying awake during class.

Get Your Body Moving

Okay, stick with me. Exercise is one of the most effective ways to wake yourself up, but it doesn’t have to be anything crazy. It can be easy to just grab your computer and take your morning class in bed, but you’ll be way more alert if you’ve moved around a bit before starting. I like to walk to go get coffee (because caffeine never hurts!) or breakfast, but doing a quick yoga flow or some stretches will do the trick if you don’t want to leave your room.

Make Sure You’re Studying in a Neutral Temperature

Temperature plays a huge role in your focus and productivity. Warmer temperatures make you sleepy, so try to avoid them, even though they feel more comfortable. Don’t air on the colder side either. Cold temperatures can make you feel more alert, but your body has to expend more energy to regulate your internal temperature, which takes away from the energy you need to concentrate on your class.

The best bet is to keep things in the middle, somewhere between 70 and 78 degrees. I like keeping a fan in my room so I can adjust the temperature as needed. 

Think About What You’re Wearing

I know it’s unrealistic that any of us will change into a nice outfit for Zoom, but what you wear can have an impact on your focus. Since dressing for success is likely out of the picture (props to you if you do it, though), consider your color palette instead. A study showed that green and blue can help you be more efficient and focused, so change into your nicest hoodie in those shades before logging on. 

Get Out of Your Bed

I know, I know, it’s so comfortable, but your bed should be reserved for sleep. Because we associate our beds with getting our nightly zzz’s, we’ll be less likely to focus while we’re in them. If you’re not willing to compromise comfort, take class in a comfy chair, couch or beanbag if you have it available to you. Your grades and sleep habits will both thank you; by avoiding other activity in your bed, you will strengthen the association between your bed and sleep, making it easier to fall asleep at night. 

Take Naps When You Need To

Sometimes when we’re stressed we think we don’t have time to sleep or take a break, but naps are extremely beneficial if you’re hitting a mental rut. If you’re having trouble staying awake while doing your work, allow yourself to take a quick nap. Though it may seem like you don’t have time, you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of your work. Your brain will be more alert, and you’ll be able to tackle your work and classes with more energy and focus. Keeping your naps between 20 and 30 minutes is the ideal time to wake up and feel good.

This semester is definitely a tough one, and online classes are not ideal, but try to incorporate some of these tips to get the most out of your Zoom classes!