5 Benefits of Breaks
It has been some time since the workaholic employee, who works without pause, who does not get up from his desk for anything, does not have lunch, is constantly connected with the company and always working overtime has left an admired standard and example to be followed.
The concept of productivity is not related to a large amount of work. It’s not always the person who works the hardest, without a break, that achieves the best results.
On the contrary, excessive, continuous, routine work can impair your performance.
With a lighter and more creative mind, productivity tends to increase.
This is a logical consequence of breaks during work: you are able to deal better with your tasks, are more productive and efficient and therefore produce higher quality work!
These days companies are more and more concerned about the health and well-being of their employees, after all it's a well known fact- the healthier and happier someone feels, the more productive they will be.
Whether it's lunchtime, during your tea break, or just getting up a bit from your table to stretch your legs- these breaks are essential to make your workday more effective.
We list 5 benefits that taking a break while working can bring to you:
- It increases your creativity
Creativity is important in a professional environment. Professionals, freelancers and entrepreneurs from different segments depend on innovation and creativity to achieve results.
A tired mind is unlikely to be able to produce good ideas. For this reason, clearing your mind and pausing during work also contributes to awakening creativity.
- Rest your eyes
Spending hours in front of your computer can be very harmful to your eyes. Sporadic breaks help preserve the health of your vision.Prevents injuries from staying in the same position.
Staying in the same position for hours can contribute to developing certain occupational illnesses or repetitive strain injuries. Taking a break from your chair can make you less prone to developing musculoskeletal issues.
- Helps clear the mind
Everyone who has spent a lot of time on repetitive tasks knows how stressful it can be. Whether inside an office, at home or in any work environment, the continuous execution of tasks puts strain on our mental health.
Taking a break during work helps to clear the mind, bringing relaxation and a feeling of relief.
- Helps in decision making
If you've ever tried to make important decisions with a head full of problems, in the middle of a hectic work routine, you know how complicated this can be. We make better decisions when we are able to reflect and reason clearly.
In a work environment, a routine is very important and helps maintain a regular work rhythm.
However, it is important that the routine is broken through short breaks.
They help you to put your thoughts in order, breathe calmly and think of the best strategies to solve problems and generate results.
Want some tips for including breaks during your day to day work?
One is to plan your work schedule well. That way you will be able to maintain the habit of resting between activities.
Remember to separate intellectual activities from bureaucratic tasks. You don't want to do something that requires creativity after wearing yourself out with a tiring, mechanical task.
An interval between these two types of tasks can be a great idea.
The length of the break will depend a lot on your routine and your professional profile.
The tip is to take two to three breaks a day, each at least five-10 minutes long.
Use that time for yourself. It is possible to rest, eat and even meditate.
The important thing is not to think about work during the break, to return with much more energy, creativity and motivation!
Karin Muller
Karin Mueller is co-owner of Solaris tea and has been working in the field of wellness and health for over 20 years now. She is a Medical Herbalist (BSc Hons), practising Midwife (BSc Hons), Massage and Spa therapist and experienced course facilitator and teacher on a wide range of topics related to mindfulness, meditation and women’s health. She is currently also studying in the ‘Medicine of Light’ school to deepen her spiritual practise.