Monday Motivation: How to take a 15 minute break in 1 minute

I picked up a helpful trick for increasing your productivity from Dr. Kathleen Nadeau that she calls “Green Breaks”.  It’s a technique that allows you to take a quick refreshing break that doesn’t interrupt the flow of your work.

 

Here’s how it works.

Focus on something green

 

The best is green scenery outside, or a plant, or even a picture of something green.  Green has a proven ability to calm and soothe the mind.

 

Breathe deeply

 

Oxygen has obvious benefits.  And yet we so seldom focus on getting enough of it.

 

Drink a glass of water

 

Don’t underestimate the power of hydration to get your mind in shape.

 

Stretch

 

You remember this from kindergarten: reach up high, then sweep your arms down to touch your toes.  Once you’ve done this a couple of times, you’ll wonder why you ever stopped!

 

Now you’re done, and ready to get back on task.  I bet it only took a minute or two, yet you probably feel as rested as if you took a full 15 minute break.  Now excuse me.  I think I need a green break of my own. 🙂