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Burnout is on the rise and you’ll never guess what can help you combat it – more relaxing breaks!
Sound too good to be true? Studies show that taking breaks throughout the day will make it easier for you to learn new skills, and even a short break from a task can increase your ability to focus for longer periods.
That’s where we come in. Take charge of your well-being and find inspiration in these creative break ideas that will help you return to your desk feeling your best.
Practice mindfulness with an easy craft
Who says you can’t break out the craft supplies on your lunch break? Hands-on crafts will keep your fingers away from the grasp of your phone and allow you to tap into a meditative state. Our top picks are knitting and crocheting where you can take it one row at a time, which will make it easier to pick up for a short moment. Get started by learning crocheting and knitting basics in one of these workshops!
Go on a walk for a breath of fresh air
Walking is well known to improve your mood and decrease blood pressure, making it perfect for a restorative break. Throw on your sneakers and loop around the block for some warm Vitamin D or find a route with a coffee shop along the way for an extra pick-me-up. You can choose to plug in some headphones or simply enjoy the fresh air and bustling sounds of your neighborhood.
Ease tension with a stretch break
Releasing tension has never been easier with a stretch break. Learn easy office desk stretches that will allow you to smooth out your aches and relax your muscles with no equipment needed. Some of the best stretches for people who sit all day target your neck, lower back, and core. If yoga poses are more your cup of tea, join a beginner's yoga class for some gentle lunchtime movement.
Read an inspiring short story
Switch your screen for a paperback to reach optimum restfulness! According to this study, the best way to recharge is with an activity involving a piece of paper or a large computer screen rather than your phone. With a book of short stories, you can take a screen break with something that you know will fill you with a calming or energizing perspective. Audiobook lovers and novel readers can also reap the benefits of an inspiring story– just focus on a chapter at a time!
Make cute latte art
Add a creative spin to your coffee break by learning latte art. Use this as an opportunity to master your coffee maker or find some warmth in a latte heart design. This will incorporate positive and creative energy into your day and you’ll feel rewarded as you see your designs progress over time!
Refuel with healthy snack ideas
Make sure what you’re putting in your body will make you feel good too! Learn easy healthy snack recipes in advance so you can make sure you have all the necessary brain-boosting ingredients on hand as soon as your stomach begins to rumble. You can even learn how to make satisfying treats alongside your teammates in this virtual snack-making workshop for teams!
Stimulate creativity with doodling
Adult coloring books were a fad for a good reason: art has therapeutic benefits. Whether you choose to go freehand with your illustration or invest in a coloring book, putting pen to paper can have an incredible calming effect. Find solace in everything from a soothing color palette to a cathartic scribble. A creative outlet will allow you to explore new perspectives and hopefully inspire you in work and home life. If you find that art is your go-to break idea, try an art class to get a little more out of your newfound interest.
Cool down with creative journaling
Feeling a little all over the place? Journaling provides the perfect outlet to decompress and recenter. Writing down your experiences can help you identify and work through your feelings, which is especially helpful in the middle of a busy work day! Discover the best journaling techniques for you in a creative journaling workshop.
Connect with your coworkers
Why not switch your solo lunch every so often for an impromptu break date with one of your colleagues? Social time with your coworkers can be a great way to combat feelings of isolation and increase trust, communication, and productivity within remote teams. Whether you exchange regular snaps of your DIY latte art with a remote colleague or meet up for an office stretch break in an empty conference room, there are plenty of fulfilling ways to connect.
You can even plan a get-together for your entire team with team building workshops all across the US and virtual activities to connect with your work-from-home crew. Learn a new craft together, try a cocktail-making class, or experiment with a cooking workshop! Your team will feel valued and more motivated after taking the time to create.
