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Sometimes the best way to increase your productivity and stay focused during work is to give yourself a little break and take it easy for half an hour or more. Your lunch doesn’t need to be spent sitting at your desk and watching YouTube videos. While that’s a good way to blow off steam - no judgement here - there are other ways to make the most of your lunch hour and set yourself up for a constructive last-few-hours of the day. Why not try one of these five relaxing ways to spend your lunch hour that will keep you recharged, productive, and dare we say, fulfilled.
1. STEP OUT TO LUNCH WITH A FRIEND
Getting some fresh air, clearing your head, and chatting with a friend is a great way to distance yourself (literally and figuratively) from work. An hour spent taking your mind off your tasks will lift your mood, give you a change of scenery, and serve as a reminder that a personal life is also important.
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2. MEDITATE
All you need is ten minutes to benefit from the calmness that meditation brings. Taking the time to meditate during your lunch break increases productivity, reduces stress and anxiety, and allows you to neutralize your emotions.
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3. EXERCISE
A quick and efficient sweat session will boost your energy, give you those endorphins, and provide an outlet for frustrations and anxiety. Oh, and there’s that little benefit of living a healthy life and staying active.
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4. GO ON A WALK
Take a stroll around the neighborhood to clear your head and cozy back up to nature. You’ll be able to process things you shelved due to work and have the space to think about what you have going on the rest of the day.
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5. GET TO KNOW YOUR COWORKERS
You spend a good amount of time together, so why not get to know your coworkers better in an non stressful environment? You may find that your “work friends only” can turn into people you see on the weekends.
