The Power of Breaks

Breaks are vital to living a healthy life. Or so I am learning. I mean, there is even a whole meal based around breaking a fast... A meal that's focused on refueling our body which helps nourish the mind. 

Yet, I find myself in a bit of a conundrum... I am terrible at taking breaks at work, but when I am home, all I do is "take a break". 

"I'm so tired."

"I just need to sit and take a break." 

"Work drained my battery today."

Work has been this thing that I've seen as a large part of my identity. If I'm really successful in my work then I'll get promoted and climb the ladder where I will earn greater respect, prestige and income. I tell myself that I am so busy I can't take breaks and have to work through lunch. 

I fell for the romantic, see in all the movies, career dream. And am now realizing that my success does not hinge on how many breaks I forgoe to get the work done. It actually is illegal! I am legally required to take breaks during the workday. Not taking them is not a badge of honor. It's sabotage to my overall health. 

Even at home on the weekends, I feel like I have to be so productive and get all these tasks done before I can take a break. 

"Taking a break will kill my motivation"

"I have to get ALL the laundry done before I can sit down" 

"The house needs to be spotless" 

False. 

The reality of all that I have just shared is that breaks are vital to maintaining our health. Giving our bodies a physical break prevents injuries. Giving our minds a mental break prevents burn out. Giving ourselves permission to build our schedules based on our individual needs is more important than what others think about how "productive" you are. 

For some of us, a break is a moment to practice positive self talk or confidence building reflection. Some of us are bringing ourselves out of a difficult season so we need to start small. 

When you find yourself feeling physically, mentally, emotionally tired or ALL 3, ask yourself, where have the breaks been in my life? Am I taking the time to pause throughout the day? 

Give yourself time to pause. 5... 10... 15... Maybe even 20 minutes. When I'm at work, I go for walks around campus. During these walks I repeat 1-2 of my favorite mantras. At home, I take breaks to check messages or scroll social media while putting my feet up. Literally, elevating my feet for 10-15 minutes. I'll also use this time to review my to-do list. Celebrate what I have accomplished and delete tasks that don't need to be done that weekend. 

Favorite Mantras:

- I am enough. 

- It's not my weight to carry, I set it down.

- Is this a helpful or intrusive thought? 

- You are strong. You have achieved so much. 

- I am not responsible for other people's emotions. 

- Take a deep breath.

- You've got this! 

This week, as you start back to work and the countdown for the weekend, take a moment to think about your break routine. Give yourself permission to take a moment to rest. Not only do you deserve it, your body needs it! 

Love, 

Megan