Five Minutes or Less for Health Weekly Tip: Take a Break
Taking five-minute breaks--whether you sit at a desk, do heavy construction work, or anything in between--can have several benefits. Short breaks can help increase your concentration, alertness, and work speed. They can help lower stress and your risk for on-the-job accidents, soreness, musculoskeletal disorders, and eyestrain. Short breaks are also linked to having a smaller waistline, lower body mass index (BMI), and lower triglyceride levels. Below are examples of some activities you can do in five minutes or less to benefit from rest breaks.
- Take several short breaks throughout the day (about every hour). Make sure they include some movement.
- Take a short walk away from your workstation.
- Stand up and stretch or walk in place at your desk without looking at your computer monitor.
- Get out of your chair whenever you take phone calls at your desk.
- Change positions at your workstation.
- Have a drink of water or a light snack.
Learn More
Adding Physical Activity to Your Life
Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event
Maltreatment: Risk and Protective Factors
Office Environment & Worker Safety and Health
Seven Safety Suggestions for Summer Work
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Page last modified: May 1, 2013
Page last reviewed: May 1, 2013