Saturday, January 24, 2009

Take A Break At Work To Relieve Stress

By Craig Calvin

In today's working world everyone is constantly striving to get ahead. This means more hours at work and less time spent on breaks. In most states, the lunch break is required by law. However, that doesn't stop the American workforce from eating at their desks or skipping their lunch altogether. Many people would be surprised to know that productivity actually increased in companies that required employees to take their lunch break.

The truth is, we need breaks to refuel our bodies as well as our minds. If you are one who finds it difficult to sit down and take a break, there are things you can do to de-stress which will actually force you to get those breaks you need. One helpful thing is to take time to be social with the people you work with. Get to know them and ask them about themselves. This will develop camaraderie with coworkers and make for a better working environment.

Spending time at work leaves less time for our loved ones, so try to take a day at least once a week to leave the office and have lunch with a friend or family member. It provides a much needed change of scenery and helps clear your head at the same time. Getting out of the office and doing something which requires physical movement is also helpful. Some use their break to visit a gym for a quick workout, or take a bike ride, or even just a short walk. Getting out of the building and breathing fresh air is healthy.

Often we have little time between work and personal responsibilities to enjoy our hobbies. Lunch time is the perfect time to indulge a hobby you love. Read a book, play cards, play a computer game, listen to music or browse the Internet.

You may even decide to go and get a haircut or have your nails done on your break. We often neglect ourselves and place our personal needs at the bottom of the priority ladder. This is a clear path to continued stress which ultimately is not healthy for us. Taking the time to learn how to balance work and pleasure will make you happier, and also your boss happier. - 16755

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