Stressed at work? Take two minute breaks

Filed in archive Stay Healthy on August 26, 2007

Are you feeling stressed at work? Take two minute breaks to get more energy.

When working in a stressed environment we find it hard to take a break because there is so much to do. We prioritize getting things done instead of taking a good break.

It is the same thing when working from home. You get caught up in your activities and before you know it hours have passed and you haven't had a proper break. Well no matter if you work at home or in an office it is important that you take a break. If you are feeling stressed a little "stress mini break" can help you get through the day with more energy.

These exercises are quick and simple and you don´t need to change into training gear or even leave your office to do them. I call it two minute breaks because you really don´t need more than two minutes.
You will work better and feel more relaxed if you move your body a little to get the blood circulation going.



Here are a few examples of what you can do on your two minute break.

* Stand up straight. Raise your hands up in the air over your head, take a deep breath at the same time. Lower your arms and breath out slowly. Repeat 2-3 times.
* Toe and heel raise. Take off your shoes and raise your toes and heels a few times. Hold on to a chair if you have trouble keeping your balance.
* Stand with your legs slightly apart and slowly lean towards each side a few times. You will feel your inner thighs getting a little stretch. Do this slowly, you don´t want it to hurt only stretch a little.
* Stand with your legs together, lean forward and stretch your arms as far as you can, trying to touch your feet. Once again, do this slowly without pushing too much for you not to get hurt.
* To finish; roll your shoulders a few times as you take slow deep breaths.

This is something I try and do a few times during the day. I can feel that it gives me more energy and helps me focus better. I also try and concentrate on what I am doing so that I fully relax during the two minutes.

Of course if you have more time you can repeat each movement a few more times.
It´s important we take breaks at work, feeling stressed and burned out is more and more common today. There are other ways to relax at work as well. Read these 15 quick ways to relax at work from Ask Men.

Download a free PDF stretch break program from Healthy Work Place Week. It contains loads of good exercises you can do, save a copy and print for you to bring to work. Maybe you can even talk your boss into letting you and your colleges have a few minutes stretch break every day?