One Effective Way To Refresh Your Brain

Been outside for a break lately?

Do yourself and your brain a favour by going outside at least once during your work day.

We all need to take breaks to replenish our energy and maintain productivity levels. But all too often we stay stuck to our desks, making it more difficult to switch off.

At minimum – regardless of where we work – all breaks should happen away from the desk. Get up for a stretch. Go for a snack. Go for a glass of water. But get up and remove yourself from the scene of your work.

For a proper mental refresh, get outside. It’s a simple and effective way to give our brains a much needed rest. And, if we can get among some nature, all the better.

We need not be gone hours and hours. Just a small respite to refresh and regroup.

Where to go:

It doesn’t much matter so long as you get out, disconnect and let your mind breathe.

• Take a walk around the block or your office building.

• Walk an errand where you might otherwise drive or use public transport.

• Find a nearby park or courtyard. Enjoy a stroll or plant yourself on a park bench.

• Find a trail or a riverfront and do the same.

If you’re at a loss to find a quiet area, it’s worth doing some on-line sleuthing.

Search for hidden gardens, parks, courtyards and other green spaces in your area. There’s likely a suitable spot closer than you realise.

Why outside:

1. A change of scenery. 

We spend a lot of time at our desks. We breathe the same air and see the same scene. Mix it up! Taking ourselves outside – even if only for a few minutes – refreshes our senses. Especially if you’re indoors and in front of screens most the day. Nature improves our focus and our mood, so include as much greenery as possible. Return revitalised with fresh perspective and renewed motivation to tackle your work.

2. Problem-Solving.

Think about the work you do and the mental activity that’s required. Whether we’re strategising, problem-solving or creating, we all encounter those frustrating moments when we get stuck. Giving our minds a rest helps in the formation of solutions. According to a study by University of British Columbia, areas of the brain involved in complex problem-solving become active when our minds wander or daydream. The next time you’re feeling stuck, step outside for a refreshing break and let your brain do the work behind the scenes.

3. The Ahhhh factor.

It feels good to disconnect, unplug and get outside for a real break. Like hitting a reset button. Treating it as an integral part of your day helps keep stress levels low and energy levels topped up. Think of it as preventative maintenance for your wellbeing. Plus it’s an effective routine you’ll look forward to that breaks up the day. Relinquish any thoughts of guilt or laziness. You’ll be doing yourself a world of good.

Plan for it:

Don’t leave it to chance. Schedule a daily outing as you would an appointment.

Treat it as a standing appointment with yourself at the same time each day, if that makes sense for you. Or pick a logical time as and when depending on the day’s activities.

For example…

– A mid-morning intermission may work well during those brainy projects.

– Spending lunch outside ensures you get away from your desk, avoiding the ’working lunch’ pitfall.

– An afternoon outing might be your perfect energiser for the 3pm dip.

Remember, breaks are important.

Get outside.

Replenish, revitalise and refresh your brain.

Time for a break?