Did you know slowing down, even just a little, can help you be more productive at work? Taking regular breaks is scientifically proven to keep your brain functioning well.
Here are 7 ideas for effective breaks throughout the work day.
Whether you have five minutes or fifteen, stepping outside into the fresh air – no matter the weather – is a wonderful break for the brain and a feast for the senses. Combine this with idea number two (checking in with all five senses) for an ultra-effective and enjoyable break.
Pause and take notice of the world around you. What can you see, hear, taste, smell, and touch? Take 20-30 seconds to really zone in on the sensations before returning your focus to work tasks.
Tidy up any miscellaneous papers, return any coffee cups to the kitchen, and give your work station a quick spruce with some cleaning wipes. This is a simple way to give yourself a break from work, while also setting you up for success.
Choose one of the guided breathing exercises in the Breathing Tool in the Groov app. With one, five, and ten minute options available, there’s a breathing exercise to suit breaks of all sizes.
Try to avoid eating meals or snacks at your desk. Sometimes powering through can seem like a more productive option, but taking a short break will almost always help you perform better.
Tune into a Groov e-learning module to give your brain a break from the tasks at-hand while learning about wellbeing strategies. You’ll walk away feeling inspired to weave more wellbeing actions into each work day.
If you work a sedentary job, it’s really important to get up and stretch your legs as often as possible. Aim to do a short walk around your work station every 60 minutes if you can, or every 90-120 minutes at the bare minimum.