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"Taking a break can lead to a breakthrough."
When you hear the word 'break', you probably think of the half hour at lunchtime. But taking a break can also happen in just a few minutes. So how do you motivate your employees to make the most of it? We've got some tips for short, quality breaks at work.
The result? More productive, relaxed, engaged and healthier colleagues!
10 ideas for a short, quality break at work
Non-work-related chats
Nothing more relaxing than catching up with your favourite colleagues! Small talk while the coffee brews taps into the part of the brain that boosts a sense of togetherness, which pays off in the work that follows.
As an employer or manager, lead by example here and inspire others to do the same.
Stretch!
Back pain, neck pain, stiff muscles by the end of the workday? Time for some body movement. Even if it's just from behind your desk, standing up and loosening your muscles works wonders and leaves you feeling more relaxed.
Meditation or breathing exercise
Meditation brings huge benefits for mental wellbeing at work. It sharpens focus, which sends creativity soaring! Ever heard of meditation but not sure where to start? This handy YouTube video guides beginners through it step by step!
Enjoy homemade snacks
Everyone loves a snack, but it's even more enjoyable when it's homemade and shared with colleagues. This e-book can give you and your team the perfect nudge to get started!
Try a short yoga session
Yoga is one of those things everyone says they want to try, but few actually take the plunge. A shame, really, because yoga also helps preserve inner calm, and taking that first step is easier than you think.
Nutritious snacks are key!
Fancy a piece of fruit or more in the mood for an energy bar? Encourage your employees to reach for a more nutritious snack and leave the sugar-loaded biscuits on the shelf. Not only do these bring back hunger fast, they're also tough on the heart, blood vessels and cholesterol.
Food is fuel for the body, plain and simple! Eating well is essential to keep energy levels steady and avoid those energy dips.
Watch a relaxing video
Sometimes employees don't fancy a quick chat or a stretch, but just want a moment to themselves. Relaxing videos, like the example below, let them forget the world for a bit and come back to work feeling refreshed!
Get outside for a bit!
Fresh air helps clear the body and boosts the effect of a short break. Employees who step outside during their break feel fitter and more productive than those who stay glued to their desks.
Motivate your employees to head outside so they can come back to work fully recharged.
Play a great tune and boost the mood!
Put on a song your employees can enjoy. Spotify's 'guilty pleasures' playlist is perfect for letting loose to some old classics. Music puts colleagues in a better mood!
Which break moments will you bring to your workplace? Share your team's break moment on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn and don't forget to tag us! (@justbiteeu)