Don’t Burn Out! Tips and Tricks to Play Longer and Smarter

As we all know, gaming can transport us to different worlds, challenge our skills, and connect us with a global community. Extended gaming sessions can sometimes lead to burnout though, which can really get in the way of our enjoyment. We thought we’d put together some tips and tricks to help you game longer without feeling the burn.

1. Set a schedule

One of the best ways to prevent burnout is to establish a gaming schedule. It can be so easy to get into the ‘just one more game’ mindset, but if you allocate specific times for gaming and make sure you have ample breaks in between sessions, you’ll stay on your best form. A routine like this helps maintain a healthy balance between gaming and all the other stuff you need to get done! Use alarms or reminders if it helps to keep your gaming sessions in check (and try to stick to them…).

2. Get comfy

Your gaming environment really does play a significant role in your overall experience and enjoyment. If you can, invest in a comfy chair that supports your back, and ensure your gaming setup is ergonomically friendly (i.e try not to lounge and slouch!). Proper lighting and a clutter-free space will also help you to feel clear headed. What’s that old saying? Tidy house, tidy mind.

3. Stay hydrated and eat well

When you’re in the middle of an intense gaming sesh, make sure you keep plenty of water to hand and try to stay hydrated. If you can, opt for healthy snacks like nuts and fruits to keep your energy levels up. Try not to have too many sugary drinks and junk food – sorry, not trying to sound like your mum! But we all know too much of that can lead to crashes and fatigue, not what we want.

4. Take regular breaks

Frequent breaks are crucial to prevent physical and mental exhaustion. Go easy on your eyes and try to have some time away from your screen every 20 minutes or so. Stand up, stretch and get moving for a few minutes to refresh your mind and body. You’ll soon get used to taking these breaks, and you might just find your game improves as you enhance your focus and reduce strain on your eyes, body and mind.

5. Move!

We mentioned this above, but we can’t stress enough the importance of Incorporating some regular physical activity into your routine. You don’t need to go mad and spend hours at the gym each day, but simple exercises like stretching, yoga, or a brisk walk can make a big difference. Physical activities like these will boost your energy levels, improve your circulation, and help prevent the stiffness that can come with prolonged sitting.

6. Socialise (however you feel comfortable)

Gaming is often a solitary activity, but social interaction has been proven to be really important for mental wellbeing. If you don’t like the idea of social gatherings IRL, then why not try joining gaming communities, or take part in multiplayer games that encourage teamwork and communication. Sharing experiences and connecting with others can make gaming more enjoyable and less isolating, which is great for our mental health.

And while we’re talking about our mental health, remember that practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises can keep your brain in tip top shape. If you’re feeling less than your best then reach out to someone you trust, whether that’s your family, a friend or your GP. The first step is often the hardest, but there are plenty of ways to get a helping hand with your mental wellbeing, and plenty of people out there who will want to help, trust us.

7. Mix it up

Playing the same game for extended periods can lead to monotony and burnout. Mix up your gaming sessions by trying different genres or titles. This variety keeps your gaming experience fresh and exciting, and it helps prevent the repetitive strain that can lead to burnout.

8. Know when to stop

Probably the best tip of all! It’s okay to take a break from gaming, especially if you feel fatigued or are becoming frustrated and uninterested. Making time for other hobbies or spending time outdoors can rejuvenate your mind and body, which in turn will be good for your gaming game!

Gaming is a fantastic hobby that offers countless hours of entertainment. If you try out these tips and tricks, you may well find you can enjoy longer gaming sessions without the risk of burnout. Take care of your physical and mental health, create balance, and most importantly, have fun. Happy gaming 😊