10 Break Ideas for a Happier Workday

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The Break Room

We built pusuhpbot to fix those workdays where getting home means going to sleep. It’s a way to stay active, energized and happy so that you’re ready to seize the day!

Here are ten break ideas to spice up your workday!

1. Unplug

step away from the screen

When you’re working on a computer, it’s easy to lose track of time. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is unplug for a moment.

In other words: actually take a break, even if it means turning off your computer!

2. Make a Call

take your mind off of work

Here’s a life-hack for you: tell an old friend you’ll call at 2:30 (right in the middle of your monthly report). Not only will a nostalgic call take your mind off of work, it will force you to take a break.

Pro tip: walk and talk for an energy boost.

3. Stand Up

change your surroundings

Temporarily changing your body position and physical location can break you out of a bad funk and inspire fresh new ideas. If you have a standing desk, you probably know how much better you feel after a day of standing than a day of sitting.

Getting away from your seat is an easy way to have a complete break without being notified about work (it’s not a real break if you’re still watching slack).

Pro tip: try some exercise like jumping jacks, or high knees.

4. Drink Some Water

keep a water bottle at your desk

If you already have a habit of drinking water all day, you know what a difference it makes. Water is a easy and free replacement for caffeine or sugar. To start, keep a water bottle at your desk and decide when to refill it.

Pro tip: refilling your water bottle is a break itself.

5. Get a Snack

an opportunity to eat something healthy

If you’re feeling sluggish, eating something will give you energy for the next hour.

You can take this as an opportunity to eat something healthy. To make it even easier, you can prepare before starting work.

6. Meditate

meditate in short, daily breaks

Sometimes work is just plain stressful. Meditation can help. If you’re having trouble relaxing, then meditating in short, daily breaks is a great way to relieve stress and tension.

You can read more about the benefits of meditation, here: When Science Meets Mindfulness

Pro tip: have a pleasant alarm go off after five minutes.

7. Stretch

bad posture can stick!

Sitting in the same position for long periods of time can put your body and mind into a funk. If you don’t have a habit of stretching, you might be surprised how much you need this. If you already have the habit, you know that you just feel great afterwards.

Here are some stretches you can do to counteract your sitting posture: (link)

8. Take a Nap

a great way to naturally take a break

This one is not for everyone, so be careful! It’s about time you take advantage of remote work. If you get tired at the same time every day, this could a great way to naturally take a break. You could wake up refreshed and ready to finish off your day.

Pro tip: set an alarm unless you want to sleep through the rest of your day!

9. Get Some Exercise

build a habit on top of other habits

It’s easier to build a habit on top of other habits, like going into the office and doing your daily 10 AM meeting. If you have ten minutes, you can fit in a full workout. Pick a partner that you share some meetings with and join them for some pushups!

Here is a quick workout to start with: (link)

10. Dance It Out

get your groove on

Don’t think so much! Just push play and get your groove on.

Let’s do it!