How to take a mental break – 4 tips from an expert

Increased stress tolerance, improved mental health, increased productivity – there are many good reasons to take mental breaks in everyday life. Here’s how to give your brain a much-needed reprieve!

A record number of Swedes are currently on sick leave due to stress-related mental illness, according to reports Radio Sweden. The most affected are women, who represent nearly 80 percent of cases.

For those who find it difficult to change the source of stress itself, short mental breaks in daily life can be a way to feel better.

“Balance is an important part of feeling stable and energized, so without breaks it can be difficult to avoid burnout,” says therapist Judy Caris. luster. “Short breaks are much needed for our mental health. If you’re stressed or exhausted, give yourself permission to do nothing for a while. It gives the body and mind a chance to recharge the batteries.

Increases stress tolerance

Not only are mental breaks important for our health, they can actually increase our productivity and make us more resistant to stress. With the help of short breaks, we can train ourselves to deal with difficulties in a more efficient way, which in turn allows us to build greater emotional resilience over time.

When it comes to what these mental breaks might look like, they are short and often the order of the day. Spending at least ten minutes a day meditating, walking, listening to a podcast, or even cleaning can be enough to make you feel more harmonious.

Below you will find some tips on how to take a mental break in everyday life!

Take a mental break – 4 effective ways

1. Relaxation exercise for tense jaws

This is a quick and easy exercise that you can do almost anywhere. Start by opening your jaw, relaxing the area around your eyebrows, and then lower your shoulders. Focus on your breathing and inhale deeply for a count of four, and hold your breath and exhale for a count of six. Repeat several times.

2. Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is about practicing mindful presence, something many people find helps with stress and anxiety.

Here’s a simple way to focus on the present moment: Notice how your body feels in contact with the chair or floor you’re sitting/standing on. You can also spend a few minutes noticing the sounds you can make, or you can pick out an object in front of you and follow its outline with your eyes.

3. Movement

Don’t underestimate the importance of movement! Take a few minutes to stretch, or go for a walk outdoors. Being outside can make us feel more connected to our surroundings, and even a brisk walk can do wonders for the body and mind.

4. Human contact

A short phone call with a friend or family member is the perfect way to get a much-needed break after a stressful day.