Take a Break: The Importance of Recharging

Americans say their mental health is declining, according to a recent Gallup poll. One potential reason is that few of us take time to recharge or even take a daily break. With today’s go-go mindset, finding time to relax each day can be challenging. Here are a few reasons why taking a break is so important.

It's Good for Your Brain

Deadlines are looming, work is piling up, and you don’t know how you’re going to get it all done. Instead of trying to power through, step away from the work. It may seem counterintuitive, but shutting down allows your brain to disengage from the tasks at hand and rest. That much-needed time to recharge will allow you to come back refocused, refreshed, and ready to tackle the tasks at hand — often more effectively than if you had tried to power through.

Your Physical and Mental Health Are Worth It

When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which can trigger a positive feeling. They also can diminish the perception of pain, resulting in a more positive mood. Research also shows that physical activity can strengthen your heart, lower your blood pressure, and increase your energy level. In addition, exercise has been proven to help with depression. Taking a few minutes to recharge by exercising — even if it’s a short walk — can improve both your mental and physical health.