A Refreshing 2 minute Break

Many studies show that taking short breaks increases your efficiency. Keep that heavy, drowsy, achy feeling at bay by getting more breath, water and stretching. It may decrease headaches and anxiety as well.

Give yourself a 2 minute break every 30 minutes, you will help your body and mind out a lot. Setting a timer helps tremendously. You can download one here: Interval Timer

REFRESHING 2 MINUTE BREAK

1. Drink a glass of water . 30 sec. Get 8-10 glasses a day. At least half a glass per hour.
Have water available at your desk.  Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers. A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen. (BYImassage.com) See sample stretches here

2. Breathe Deeply – 30 seconds - 3 to 5 deep, slow breaths.  Breathe into belly, then rib area, then chest. Be relaxed and easy, enjoying the brain food.

3. Stretch/Stand - 45 seconds Pay attention to aches, numbness, tired muscles. Do stretches that target these areas throughout the day. Stretch and rest BEFORE they start bothering you. This helps to avoid Repetitive Stress Injuries like Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Pick 3-5 of your favorite stretches, and add them to your breathing (inhale, exhale  duringneck stretch., inhale, exhale, during shoulder stretch, etc.) 

4. Close eyes or look at distant object - 10 seconds. If closing your eyes, hold your hand over your eyes to block the light.  This gives your eyes and brain a rest from the quickly flashing computer screen, and cleanses your eyes since we blink less when looking at the computer.

TRY IT! Enjoy a productive, energy-filled day!