07 Aug Office Microbreaks: Are There Benefits?
Microbreaks are short bouts of rest, which can last from a few seconds to several minutes. If you are in your workplace, office micro breaks can be beneficial.
Instead of pushing your work hours nonstop, it can be more helpful to allot time for short breaks as fatigue can build up through time.
Benefits of Office Microbreaks
Include micro breaks in your office routine as fatigue buildup can be more harmful to your workflow and personal life.
Here are some benefits of office micro breaks:
- Improved mental health: micro breaks can help you relax and decompress throughout the day. In addition, it can help fight off stress and mental health problems, which can lead to anxiety and depression. In addition, a short period of time away from your work tasks can help clear your mind, improve your overall mood, and increase your resilience against pressures.
- Increased focus and clarity: office microbreaks can be helpful in fighting off decline in focus and concentration as mental fatigue and physical tiredness set in. It can help you renew your energy, creativity, and attention.
- Better physical health: a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful to one’s health. There can be several health issues that can arise due to prolonged sitting and inactivity such as obesity or being overweight, higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, and increased risk of diabetes.
- Prevents burnout: ensuring that you have regular breaks can help prevent mental exhaustion and physical fatigue brought on by prolonged stress. Lesser chance of burnout means higher job satisfaction, which can cause a positive attitude in the workplace.
Schedule your work breaks if you are experiencing the following:
- Changes in eating habits
- Feeling eyestrain
- Low mood
- Lack of focus
- Poor performance at work
- Withdrawing from workmates, friends, and family
How to Take Work Microbreaks?
In just a small period of time, you can maximize your short breaks to your benefit.
Here’s how you can consume your microbreaks in your workplace:
- Stretch and move your body
- Have a cup of coffee
- Enjoy a few minutes of silence
- Do deep breathing exercises
- Do something creative
SOURCE:
Calm. (n.d.). Micro breaks: Why taking short breaks can improve productivity. Calm. https://www.calm.com/blog/micro-breaks
Verywell Mind. (2020, October 9). Why you should take a break. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/why-you-should-take-a-break-3144576