How far long are you on your license (and physics for that matter)? I took my break earlier this year right before stage 1 check, hoping to return soon.
Excellent book that should end up saving me lots of actual flying time in preparation for the certification test.
As for physics, I'm re-taking the first calc-based physics course (online) at UNC Charlotte this fall. Just enjoying studying the basics again. I'll probably take 1-2 classes per semester until I can get a degree in it. May go for masters, not sure yet.
They pretty much want to give you the skills needed to get help and get back on the ground if you find yourself in a bad situation. And to not overreact and stall or spin yourself into the ground because you didn't trust the instruments.
With that said, there isn't such a thing as knowing too much about flying. But if your aircraft isn't IFR equipped (and lots of rentals aren't), you won't be able to practice much more than the above.
He was unfortunately killed in a car accident a few months later, but his humility left an impact on me.