No one is 100% efficient. Taking breaks makes you more productive than grinding through and getting distracted. Breaks are necessary, but how you utilize them is even more crucial.
We all know the feeling of hitting that midday slump, where our energy levels drop and our brains feel like they're running on fumes. It's in these moments that taking a break becomes crucial. Taking short, rejuvenating breaks allows our body and mind to recover and regain the ability to prioritize work and perform better.
But not all breaks are created equal - mindlessly scrolling through social media or staring off into space can leave us feeling more drained than before. So, how can we take better breaks that leave us feeling refreshed and recharged? Read on.
Taking a Break Every 52 Minutes
Taking a break every 52 minutes means breaking your work into intervals of 52 minutes of focused work followed by a break. It allows you to stay focused and avoid burnout. The idea is that shorter work periods are easier to stay motivated and regular breaks can help you to maintain productivity throughout the day. It's a technique called the Pomodoro Technique and can be helpful for people who find it hard to concentrate for long periods or get easily distracted.
The Pomodoro Technique and similar productivity strategies that involve regular breaks can be helpful for people who struggle with maintaining focus for extended periods or who find themselves easily distracted.
Get Outside
Taking a break outside can be especially beneficial. Exposure to natural light increase alertness and improve mood. Spending time in nature can improve cognitive function and memory performance by up to 20%.
In addition to the benefits of natural light, getting outside can also provide a change of scenery and fresh air. It might give you a mental lift and help you break up the monotony of work. A little walk around the block can have a lot of positive effects.
Fuel Your Mind with a healthy snack
Eating a healthy snack during your break can help to fuel your mind and improve cognitive function. Eating a healthy snack like an apple or a handful of almonds can improve attention, memory, and problem-solving skills.
Incorporating a healthy snack into your break routine can also help prevent overeating during meals and promote healthy eating habits. By making a conscious effort to fuel your mind with healthy snacks during your breaks, you can improve your productivity, focus, and overall well-being. In contrast, consuming sugary or processed snacks can lead to a crash in energy levels and reduce productivity.
Move Your Body
Exercise boost mood reduces stress, and improves cognitive function. Incorporating movement into your break can be as simple as stretching or taking a short walk. However, vigorous exercises such as jogging or yoga can also provide significant benefits. Whatever form of movement you choose, taking a break to move your body can help to reduce physical discomfort associated with prolonged sitting, improve your mood, and increase your productivity.
[You may also like: Exercises to help you relax your eyes]
Disconnect from technology
Using social media during a break can increase stress levels. Instead, try disconnecting by reading a book, taking a nap, or practicing mindfulness.
Technology can be a major source of distraction and stress, even during our breaks. Disconnecting from technology can help to provide a mental break and allow us to recharge. Engaging in relaxing activities such as reading or mindfulness can also help reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
[Also check: Own your present! practice mindfulness habits every day]
Sit and Let Your Mind Wander
Sometimes the best thing you can do during a break is simply sitting and letting your mind wander. Taking a break to stare out a window can help to reduce stress levels and improve cognitive function.
Allowing your mind to wander can also promote creativity and problem-solving skills. When constantly engaged in tasks and activities, we may not have the mental space to consider new ideas or approaches. Taking a break to let your mind wander can provide the mental clarity needed to generate new insights and perspectives.
Additionally, simply sitting and relaxing can help to reduce physical and mental tension associated with prolonged sitting and mental exertion. You may refuel your brain and come back to work with a new perspective by taking a few minutes to just sit and let your mind wander.
[Also check: Does listening to music boost productivity?]
Conclusion
Taking breaks is essential to boost productivity and achieve better results. While it may seem counterintuitive to take a break when there is so much work to be done, the truth is that our brains need regular rest to function at their best. By incorporating regular breaks into your workday, you can improve your focus, reduce stress and fatigue, and ultimately get more done in less time.
Remember to choose the right type of break for your needs, whether it's a short micro-break or a more extended rest period. Experiment with different techniques to see which one suits you the best.