Use your break to feel good

Taking breaks throughout the day is essential for maintaining our physical and mental well-being. It provides us with the opportunity to recharge and reset, allowing us to return to our tasks with renewed focus and energy. However, many of us tend to spend our breaks mindlessly scrolling through social media or staring at a screen, which can leave us feeling more drained than before. Instead, we should use our breaks to engage in activities that make us feel good and reenergized.

One way to make the most of your break is to practice mindfulness or meditation. According to research, taking just a few minutes to focus on your breath and clear your mind can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being (Yasuma et al., 2017). You can also try going for a short walk outside or spending time in nature.

Studies have shown that spending time in green spaces can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety (Bratman et al., 2019).Another way to feel good during your break is to engage in physical activity. Exercise has numerous physical and mental health benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress, and increased energy levels (Rebar et al., 2015). Whether you prefer going for a run, doing yoga, or simply stretching at your desk, taking the time to move your body can help you feel happier and more relaxed.If you're feeling overwhelmed or drained during your break, it can be helpful to practice self-care activities such as listening to music, reading a book, or taking a few moments to do something you enjoy.

These small acts of self-care can help you relax and recharge, allowing you to return to your tasks feeling more refreshed and focused.Overall, using your break to feel good is essential for maintaining your overall well-being. By engaging in mindfulness, physical activity, or self-care activities, you can improve your mood, reduce stress, and enhance your mental and emotional health. So next time you have a break, try to make the most of it by doing something that makes you feel good and reenergized.

References:

Yasuma, F., Hayano, J., & Task Force of the Japanese Society of Clinical Neurophysiology (2017). Respiratory sinus arrhythmia: why does the heartbeat synchronize with respiratory rhythm? Chest, 32(3), 212–217.

Bratman, G. N., Anderson, C. B., Berman, M. G., Cochran, B., de Vries, S., Flanders, J., . & Daily, G. C. (2019). Nature and mental health: An ecosystem service perspective. Science Advances, 5(7), eaax0903.

Rebar, A. L., Stanton, R., Geard, D., Short, C., Duncan, M. J., & Vandelanotte, C. (2015). A meta-meta-analysis of the effect of physical activity on depression and anxiety in non-clinical adult populations. Health Psychology Review, 9(3), 366-378.

Copyright ? Prof. Dr. Jorge R.