How To Relax At Lunch

Monday, August 1, 2011

Lunch can make or break a day once noon hits. A healthy lunch in a relaxing atmosphere can create a positive chain reaction throughout the rest of your day. You can take the time to rebound from any morning stress and recharge to get ready for the rest of the afternoon.
Don't eat at your desk. Lunch should be your time to get away from the office. The location you choose is almost as important as what you eat or what you bring. Find an out of the way place where there aren't large groups of people. A courtyard bench or a small café is preferable to a break room, but even that is better than eating at your desk.
Many workers choose to eat alone because they spend so much time during the day with other people. Eating alone gives you a chance to reflect on your day and decide how you can improve on it. The quiet time will also help you relax and focus after hours of being "on it" for work.
If you have a longer lunch hour, consider stopping by a yoga studio to refocus and get rid of tension in your muscles built up from work stresses and sitting in uncomfortable office chairs. Those who don't have a long lunch or can't access a studio should consider doing some quick stretching in a secluded area. Even reaching and stretching your arms above your head can get blood flowing.
Likewise, a short walk can stimulate your mind and help you re-center. If you go out for lunch, park in one of the back spaces so you can get a bit of exercise in before going back to the grind. Few things are more relaxing than a small stroll and a pleasant meal.
Whether you pack lunch or eat out, limit the amount of caffeine you consume. Caffeine makes it impossible for the body to relax and though it increases alertness, too much of it will make it difficult to focus. Energy drinks are out of the question, but a single soda or cup of coffee is acceptable.
Foods that are too high in fat will make you sluggish, but nibbling on a carrot stick will also make your mind slower and unfocused. Strike a good balance of filling foods that aren't too greasy and don't contain too much sugar, and you'll be able to focus and relax the rest of your day.
Take a cell phone to check the time, but resist the urge to check e-mail with a smartphone during your time away from the office. Some people choose to bring a computer to catch up on work or do some online training, but after stressful mornings, it's better to recharge for the rest of your day.
After a relaxing lunch, you should be well-fed, focused and ready for the afternoon ahead. Though it's tempting to work through lunch, realize that relaxing during lunch will increase your overall productivity and make for a much more pleasant afternoon.

 

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