Want to be more productive? Give yourself a midday break

Got 15 minutes? Give your brain a break – seriously.

You’re not being lazy. Giving yourself a midday break is an essential exercise that’s proven to provide a much needed recharge to your mind, body and spirit.

By taking regular breaks throughout your day, you switch mental gears, decrease boredom and prevent decision fatigue. That leads to an increase in productivity, creativity and those coveted “aha moments.”

So, commit to a 15-minute break about every 90 minutes. But instead of scrolling your phone and getting sucked down the social media rabbit hole, unplug and try some of these quick pick-me-ups.

1. Change the scenery

Step out of your regular environment and into a fresh perspective –– literally. Nature is the ultimate energy boost.

Engage all of your senses as you breathe deeply, listen intently and take in the fresh air. Make a conscious effort to inhale peace and positivity while exhaling your stress and exhaustion. Repeat until you lose yourself in the moment.

2. Get up and move

It’s simple science: Physical activity is good for your health, well-being, mood and more. Stand up and stretch to combat stiffness from long periods of sitting.

Take a dance break, do some light housework, go for a quick walk with your pup or squeeze in a micro-workout.

Need inspiration? Check out the XS Nation outdoor workouts video playlist. Prep for your workout with XS™ Intense Pre-Workout Boost–Citrus Burst supplement to deliver extra energy to power through your moves.

3. Strike a balance

We’re all busy, busy, busy. Restore your work-life balance by carving out pockets of time to quickly call a friend, bond with a coworker, send a handwritten card or check in on a neighbor.

Human connection is key to reducing stress, recharging your happiness and benefiting your overall mental well-being.

4. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

A tall glass of water promotes cardiovascular health, cleanses toxins, balances blood sugar and soothes muscles and joints, so make sure you’re drinking plenty throughout the day.

Hydration helps your skin look and feel its healthiest, too. If you’re working from home, treat yourself to a quick facial like the Artistry Signature Select™ Hydrating Mask.

While you’re at it, give your hands some love to combat the havoc wreaked by continual washing and use of hand sanitizer. Try G&H Nourish+™ Hand Cream or Artistry Studio™ Shanghai Edition Soft as Silk Hand Cream to leave them feeling soft and conditioned.

5. Nurture your nature

Indoor plants are good for your health and your home. They not only add aesthetic ambience but also naturally cycle and purify the air around you.

Take a break mid-day to tend to your plants. Water, dust and rotate them for even light. Don’t have houseplants? Take a quick trip to the market to get a few! The closer you are to nature, the better you tend to feel.

6. Boost with B vitamins

B vitamins are natural fatigue fighters, but they’re not typically found in plants at high levels and your body does not store them long term. They need to be replenished daily.

Take a vitamin B break. XS™ Energy Drinks are packed with vitamin B and are a great replacement for that afternoon cup of coffee.

Or you can take a supplement, like Nutrilite™ Vitamin B Dual-Action, which helps your body get ahead of fatigue by delivering all eight essential B vitamins and up to eight hours of energy support.†

7. Take a power nap

Short naps have surefire health benefits. Remember to set an alarm for 15 minutes. You’ll awaken more alert, refreshed, relaxed and mentally ready to finish your day strong.

Learn more

So, the next time you feel the urge to power through, consider taking a pause instead. Try these tricks and monitor your results, so you can find your groove. You got this.

To learn more about the products mentioned here, visit Amway.com. And for more great healthy living tips, check out other blogs at Amway Connections.