Sep 25

Sep 25 Taking Breaks To Improve Focus

Article, General Health, Mental Health, Motivation & Growth, Productivity, Self-Care, Wellbeing, Work Health

Whether you're at a desk, on a job site or caring for a household, building in regular breaks is key to supporting your overall wellbeing. Allowing your mind and body to rest, even for a few moments, can improve your attention span, memory, learning and creativity. Breaks can also prevent mental fatigue and reduce stress. These benefits are crucial for focusing at work and at home.

Here are a few ideas for taking breaks throughout the day.

Stretch. Moving your body and releasing muscle tension increases oxygen levels in the brain, which can help you think more clearly and reduce brain fog. Gentle movements are a great way to relax and “reset.” Try simple neck rolls and shoulder shrugs, or standing and reaching your arms above your head for a full-body stretch.
Mindfulness. Training your brain to remain in the present moment is beneficial when you need to focus. Taking a break to clear your mind allows you to reset and return with a fresh perspective. This mental shift improves concentration and can spark new ideas and boost creativity.
Pause for meals. Taking time to eat offers a natural opportunity to pause during the day, but it’s easy to skip or rush through these moments when things get hectic. Prioritize time to eat well, step away from work, silence your phone and give yourself permission to slow down. These moments can help you reconnect with the present and recharge your body and mind.
Engage with others. Connecting with others fosters a sense of safety and support, consciously and subconsciously. These moments can energize your mind and give you the confidence to take risks and think creatively. Whether it’s chatting with a co-worker about weekend plans, messaging a friend or calling a loved one you haven’t spoken to in a while, these interactions are a great way to take a break so you can return to your tasks with renewed focus.

Intentional breaks are a simple but powerful tool for maintaining concentration, energy and wellbeing. Whether it’s a quick stretch, a mindful pause or a moment of connection, these small actions can significantly impact how you feel and perform throughout the day.