Did you ever notice how productive you are after you spending your lunch break in a certain way? I’m not talking about how you feel after returning from lunch after eating a greasy hamburger and French fry lunch, but they type of lunch break that actually benefits both the mind and body.
So if you’re looking for ways to increase your productivity during the afternoon stretch before the 5:00 bell, then read on…
What I have done is gather 7 great ways to get the maximum out of your lunch break every day of the week.
#1: Eat Brain Food
Did you know the brain consumes approximately 20% of the total amount of energy you expend daily? This means you have the feed your brain the right type of food to keep is humming all day long.
Check out this list of brain energizing foods:
- Fish: Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent for brain function and development
- Avocado: This tasty fruit helps to reduce bad cholesterol, thus helps to reduce the potential buildup of plaque. This means you’ll enjoy better blood flow.
- Blueberries: Antioxidant-rich blueberries has long been known for their ability to protect the brain from cell-damaging free radicals.
- Raw Carrots: Raw carrots help to replenish glucose levels and these are vital to brain function.
- Walnuts and other Nuts: These are an excellent source of vitamin E. This helps to support cognitive function.
If you’re looking for more information on how fruit and food help to improve your mind, body and soul, download a free copy of the FruitCeutical Handbook
#2: Take a Nap
Personal energy levels naturally take dip during the afternoon hours, so why not help to offset this pending drowsy time with a quick cat nap during lunch. A 20 minute naps helps to clear out the working memory and replenish your ability to think clearly.
#3: Mediate
The Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology published the results of study that found that a 20-minute “progressive relaxation” break helped to reduce stress in both the mind and body.
#4: Work Out
While it may be unrealistic to get a 750 calorie workout during your lunch hour, simply walking the halls or walking through the parking lot for a 15 minute power walk will help. Remember, the time you spent during your lunch break isn’t about getting a high-intensity workout, but to get you away out from behind your desk.
#5: Spend Time Out in Nature
Studies have found that spending 15 minutes outdoors enjoying the sunshine, listening to the birds and watching the cloud drift by is sufficient to refresh our attention spans. This allows us to return to work with a renewed freshness
#6: Enjoy Social Media
KISSMetrics has published a study that indicates noon and 6 P.M. show a spike in social media activity. The reason is many people are looking for something to read while they are eating at their desks. If you want a potentially great response rate to your posts and tweet, spend a few minutes during lunch for greater exposure and social interaction.
#7: Change Your Work Environment
Sometimes returning to the same work environment after you return from lunch can be a huge downer. Try to find a secondary location to start your afternoon. Break up your week by spending time in the silence of the conference room for an hour or to get some work done. Or, enjoy an hour in the office cafeteria to experience an energetic atmosphere.
If you’re looking for more information on how fruit and food help to improve your mind, body and soul, download a free copy of the FruitCeutical Handbook
Feel free to post how you make the most of your lunch break. Look forward to reading your comments.
