How to properly not work at work
You go to work to work, there's no doubt about that. But the truth remains that the human brain also needs regular doses of rest to concentrate and function effectively. That is why we have prepared some tips for you on how to relax in the office in order to gain energy and reduce stress.
Learn to take a break
You can't do your job, you're nervous, you forgot what you intended to do. Everyone knows this feeling. Borna Bonakdarpour, a behavioural neurologist and assistant professor of neurology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, confirms that when it comes to limited concentration, cognitive overload and energy consumption are the main culprits. In other words, the brain needs to rest. According to studies, you need about a 20- to 30-minute break for every two hours of focused work.
Of course, some tasks do not require 100% attention, but Bonakdarpour adds that even in such cases, rest is necessary. Otherwise, our attention decreases, we are less motivated, we make more mistakes and it is easier to get distracted. The paradox remains that when you reach the point where you need a rest, it is easy to make mistakes.
So how do you get as much energy as possible from a short break for the next focused job?
Take a walk, even around the desk
Surprisingly, one of the best ways to relax is exercise. Take a short walk by yourself, get some fresh air, pop out onto the terrace, take a moment to leave the room where you normally sit. Many offices also have exercise equipment and rooms where you can stretch stiff muscles. Don't hesitate to do a few exercises and clear your head right in the workplace. It will help you concentrate better.
Give yourself
a massage
Another way to relax and regain attention is a massage that you can do from the table. Have hand cream ready and give yourself a palm massage. Another great tip is your ears. Medical studies have shown that an ear massage (or auricular acupressure) relieves stress and increases energy. The trick is to gently massage the ear right in the middle of its upper third. If you have trouble finding the specific place, start by massaging your earlobes and then work your way up.
Recharge with
a healthy snack
There's a reason why CAPEXUS creates modern relaxation areas and practically equipped kitchens in offices. But coffee alone should not be synonymous with a work break. For example, apples (specifically apple peels) contain quercetin. This antioxidant acts against high cholesterol and at the same time supports cognitive functions. Another great tip is sunflower seeds containing vitamin E.
Take twenty,
but not thirty
A recommendation in conclusion, but not one that every employer can implement, is the so-called power nap. This is a sleep technique with clear rules. If you want to gain energy, the ideal length of sleep is 20 minutes. Some companies support sleep in the workplace and adapt the environment so that it is possible to "take twenty" in comfort and without any disturbance. The best time for a power nap is about two hours after lunch, when blood sugar levels drop both physically and mentally.
How definitely not to take a break
- Don't procrastinate on social networks, computer games and mobile phones. Your brain won't really rest.
- Don't try to sleep at your desk. Instead head over to the break room and do not risk neck or back pain.
- Don't hide from work in the toilet. The environment in which you rest also plays an important role.
Don't regard a cigarette and coffee break as a rest. Seek out healthy snacks and a pleasant time in the kitchen.
If you are interested in the idea of modern offices that prioritize employee rest and productivity, do not hesitate to contact us. We have created a work environment for hundreds of companies, and yours can be next.
Published June 13, 2022
