We all need breaks - whether it’s 5 minutes, a week, or a longer-term commitment to rejuvenation. Breaks help our minds refocus and re-program our ability to be productive. So, why are breaks so effective?
Your prefrontal cortex (PFC) is the focus-point of your brain. Think of all it does for you: it helps you focus on projects (while at work and at home), hobbies, family and friend time, and literally every other aspect of managing your life. Beyond focus, your PFC also supports logical thinking, executive functioning, and willpower. No wonder it needs a break sometimes!
A simple break involving movement can boost your physical health and mindset. Try a 10-minute walk, wrist or ankle circles, or our personal fav - yoga!
Focusing - cranking out a work project, for example - can increase your stress level and exhaustion. When you allow yourself mental breaks, you create more mental space for creativity. As a result, you become more engaged during your productive streaks. Allow your brain breaks with meditation, daydreaming, or even changing scenery for a period of time.
The more often you allow yourself breaks, the more differences you may begin to notice in your emotional, mental, and physical health. Give it a try and see if you notice new feelings of rejuvenation throughout your days.
What are some ways you take a break? Leave a comment and let us know!
Source;
Fagan, Abigail and Meg Selig. "How Do Work Breaks Help Your Brain? 5 Surprising Answers." Psychology Today. 18 April 2017.