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Studies show that frequent breaks or microbreaks can improve worker’s concentration, change their views on their jobs, and even help in avoiding injuries. These short breaks can involve small activities like talking to your co-workers for a few minutes, getting coffee, or standing up to stretch.

Find out more about microbreaks and ways to do them from a trusted office space provider. 

What Happens When You Don’t Take Breaks?

Focus is essential in any job but being in a focused state for too long can have drawbacks. Your mind tends to drift away as your energy levels go down while your body starts to want movement and your attention wavers. 

While microbreaks break your focus, they ease your body and reboot your brain. A few minor distractions can significantly help with your productivity. Studies found that microbreaks can improve your ability to concentrate, increase your happiness about your job, reduce stress, and avoid common desk injuries. Taking small breaks can be anything from walking around your office space to making a cup of tea. However, keep in mind that microbreaks should be short and voluntary. 

There’s not recommended frequency for microbreaks but there are things you can do to include them to your daily schedule. One of which is the Pomodoro technique or work in blocks of 25 minutes followed by a five-minute break. Moreover, one study found that the most productive people tend to spend around 52 minutes on their task followed by a 17-minute break. 

Microbreak Suggestions

Watch Funny Videos – Even a small mental break from your task is enough to reboot your mind. Take a few minutes to scroll through Facebook to watch a few videos or chat with some friends and talk about your new office space. 

Breathing Exercises – Recent surveys suggest that up to 80 percent of employees experience stress in the workplace. This can trigger your “fight or flight” response, which heightens anxiety and reduces cognitive abilities. 

You can significantly feel less stressed while in your office space by trying a simple breathing technique. Find a comfortable seat and sit straight. Close your eyes and start breathing through your nose. Inhale for a count of two and hold your breath for a count of one. Gently, exhale through your mouth for a count of four. Complete the exercise by holding your breath for a second and repeat from the start.  

Stay Hydrated – Being hydrated improves physical performance, motivation, and focus. A study found that drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning can increase productivity by 14 percent. Drinking more water means you have to stand up from time to time to refill your glass, meaning you’ll be forced to take small breaks from whatever you’re doing. Meanwhile, dehydration can result in fatigue, anxiety, and stress. 

Stretch, Move, and Walk – Sitting all day in front of your desk can lead to different health issues. According to recent studies, a sedentary lifestyle is linked to anxiety, hip and back issues, and increased risk of heart disease. Even just for a few minutes, stand up and stretch or walk around the office space. You can also go outside to get some fresh air, which can reduce mental fatigue and even help you sleep better at night. 

For your virtual office space needs, you can count on Connecticut Business Centers. We are a leading provider of all-inclusive executive office space and co-working space for corporate professionals. Give us a call at (203) 359-5600 or fill out our contact form to learn more about our services. We work with clients in Stamford, CT, and areas around Connecticut.