How To Make the Most of Your Remote Work Breaks
Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years. With advancements in technology and the rise of virtual communication tools, many companies are now offering their employees the option to work remotely. Now, new challenges surface as many remote workers are facing decreased movement and the perks of laziness that come with being at home. Below, we take a closer look at how to make the most of your remote work breaks, so you can optimize the situation for your overall well-being.
Schedule Your Breaks
It’s easy to get caught up in our tasks and forget to take breaks when working remotely. That’s why scheduling your breaks just as you would in a traditional office setting is essential.
Set specific times for your breaks and stick to them daily. Doing so will help you stay on track with your work and ensure you are taking much-needed breaks throughout the day to disrupt the monotony. Consider spending one break away from your desk, practicing all the benefits of pranayama, as doing so can allow you to disconnect from work and recharge your mind to increase overall motivation.
Working remotely comes with its perks, but for every perk, there may be a con. Many report finding the motivation to chip away can be difficult when household chores and children are staring them down. Taking on a mindful breathing practice can change the body and mind’s ability to adapt, move forward, and remain productive.
Step Away From Your Workstation
It’s crucial to physically step away from your workstation during your breaks. It’s tempting to use breaks to catch up on personal tasks or browse social media when working remotely.
However, these rabbit holes do not allow your mind or body to truly rest and recharge. Instead, try going for a walk outside or doing some light stretching exercises. Doing so will help improve blood flow, increase energy levels, and reduce stress. Remote work significantly impacts our physical health, so stepping away can help balance out sedentary habits.
Engage in Social Interaction
The lack of social interaction with colleagues is one of the downsides of remote work. Therefore, using your breaks as an opportunity to connect with others is vital. Schedule virtual coffee breaks or lunch meetings with your colleagues to make the most of your remote work breaks.
Doing so helps combat feelings of isolation and allows for informal conversations and team building. Consider planning these meetings monthly rather than daily if this effort becomes a stretch to schedule.
Practice Mindfulness
Remote work can often blur the lines between work and personal life. That’s why it’s essential to use your breaks to disconnect and practice mindfulness.
Take a few minutes to focus on your breathing or do a quick meditation exercise. Meditating in between tasks or task blocks will help clear your mind, reduce stress, and increase productivity when you return to work. You can also consider joining an online yoga training school or class, as these offerings are an accessible and affordable way to reconnect with yourself and recharge your mind-body connection without having to commute to a studio across town.
