The Power of Pause
No matter what type of line of work you’re in, everyone needs a break at some point during their day.
Maybe you work from home where it’s not as challenging to find some time for yourself, yet despite that you still stay glued to your screen. Or maybe you’re in a position where helping customers is always at the centre of your focus and your designated lunchtime is the only opportunity for any sort of escape.
Whatever your situation is, we have a tool to add to your toolbox that we promise you won’t regret using… say hello to mini mental health breaks!
Research suggests that all it takes is one to five minutes to lower your cortisol and stress, making taking breaks at work a crucial component of caring for your mind, body and overall health. But how can you take time out in a way that’s actually effective? Spoiler alert, it doesn’t involve scrolling through Instagram - with mini mental health breaks, you have to be intentional and we’re here to help!
Introducing the 3 W’s
With only a few minutes to spare, the clock is ticking on your mental health break; so having a plan for what to do in these moments will really help you make the most of them; and the 3 W’s - Walk, Water and Window, are the perfect place to start.
Move your body: The first of the three W’s, walking is incredibly beneficial for both your mental and physical health, and can therefore also be a great way to spend your mini break. In addition to stimulating the flow of oxygen to your brain and heart, making you feel more energised and alert; moving your body, even just for a gentle stroll, can also be perfect for taking your mind off impending stressors.
Hydrate: The second W stands for water, so head on over to that water cooler. Lowering the risk of both anxiety and depression, mini breaks are the perfect time to keep yourself sufficiently hydrated throughout the day.
Rest your eyes: The third and final W; W three refers to window - involving adjusting what you’re looking at, as well as taking a moment to reconnect with nature and the outside world. Leave the screens behind and find a window to sit by, shifting your focus and more importantly gaze, onto something else instead. Doing so will immediately help alleviate any eye strain and pain usually associated with excessive screen time. Bonus points if the window is open so that you can enjoy some fresh air!
What you choose to do during your breaks is personal preference. So whether you’ve got 6 minutes or 60, be intentional and see what is most rejuvenating for you.
Team Sudor