How to give yourself a break and be more productive

Do you tell yourself you need to schedule breaks in your day but hardly ever take the time to follow through? 

Whether you are working from home or studying for a test, taking regular breaks can help boost your productivity. 

“Studies show that taking a quick five to 10 minute break often helps you come back to your task with renewed well-being,” says Ann Iglesias, a nurse practitioner at Advocate Health Care. “Slightly longer breaks may be needed to improve vigor and performance.” 

How to take better breaks: 

1. Set aside time 

Setting a timer or scheduling a reminder on your phone or laptop can help ease you into taking regular breaks.  

2. Make it fun 

Figure out what kinds of breaks appeal to you to increase the likelihood you will follow through. 

3. Mix it up 

Iglesias suggests trying an activity that uses other parts of your brain that you may not be using while working or studying – like jumping jacks or taking a short walk. 

4. Engage the senses 

Another way to engage other parts of your brain is to pick an activity that activates one or more of your senses: 

• Sight – Change the lighting or brightness level or move to another room 
• Hearing – Cue up a favorite song and sing along 
• Smell – Take a sniff of scented toiletries or candles 
• Touch – Squeeze a stress ball or play with a fidget toy 
• Taste – Eat a small healthy snack 

5. Address your physical needs 

Pay attention to whether you are hungry, hot or cold. Additionally, consider whether you need a good stretch or a bathroom break. Ignoring physical needs can make it harder to do quality work. Listening to what your body needs allows you to come back and fully engage with your task.  

6. Deep breathing

You may be familiar with abdominal breathing from yoga or other disciplines. To deep breathe correctly, let your lower abdomen expand while you breathe in slowly through your nose. Then, breathe out slowly through your mouth. Breathing this way for a few minutes helps you relax.  

Once you find a method that works for you, stick to it so you are refreshed and ready to tackle whatever task you have next. 

Are you trying to find a doctor? Find one in Illinois or Wisconsin.