Remember how much you enjoyed recess when you were in grade school?
Back in the day, when people asked what was my favorite subject, I’d include recess on my short list. I especially looked forward to double Dutch, tetherball, dodgeball and jacks. I enjoyed most classroom activities, but visions of the next game would occasionally bounce through my mind, especially if an opponent was taunting me.
Today, my to-do list may not resemble elementary school assignments, but my breaks are pleasurable departures nonetheless. And although recess looks totally different, the same principle applies. Now breaks consist of activities that help me to stress less. Time to push back from the computer and step into my scheduled intermissions: Power walking in nature, creating a new recipe, calling a loved one, mastering yoga asanas, watching a great movie, reading a book, and more. Do you recall a previous post on boogie breaks? Dancing is a great break choice!
Personally, I prefer to plan my day around breaks.
This may seem like a novel idea to many, but scheduling what I really enjoy around my work and projects helps me to experience success on a given day.
You deserve your breaks — no matter what you have on your to-do list! And if you want to continue making progress on those positive pivots this year, building breaks into your busy schedule is critical to your overall health and well-being.
I like to alternate my breaks throughout the week, and each break varies in length. For example, my daily spiritual practice and morning stretches generally take about fifteen minutes, whereas my favorite inspirational videos and educational programs may last an hour.
I am passionate about my business and spend a considerable amount of time each day in Lifestyle 120 activities. Business is a priority, but I wrap it around my essential time-out sessions. This way I can endure challenging tasks and ensure greater gratification. On rare occasions when there’s no space for breaks, I feel deprived and sluggish.
How many breaks do you need?
It depends on your daily schedule. If you are knee-deep in responsibilities, I’d recommend three to four. Breaks are vital to a balanced life. Determine your own guilt-free recreational pursuits, and make sure they are enjoyable. The etymology of “recreation” suggests that you create again. We all need a period of renewal — a diversion from the usual day-to-day routine. And I suggest that a few of your regular pleasures include physical activity.
If you consciously frame your day with breaks, I believe you will enjoy your work more. It’s an intentional shift in perspective.
Consider This
"Sometimes it's important to work for that pot of gold. But other times it's essential to take time off and to make sure that your most important decision in the day simply consists of choosing which color to slide down on the rainbow." — Douglas Pagels
Four Steps to Nourish, Transform and Flourish
• Today set a loving intention to take multiple breaks each day.
• Begin by planning your work around your play.
• How will scheduling specific breaks throughout the day refresh you and set you up for greater success?
• Close your eyes and visualize how this lifestyle change can prepare you for your amazing second half.
Need help devising a play schedule?
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In love, peace and health--
Your feminine glow guide,
T. Kari Mitchell, M.Ed.
Motivational Speaker
Certified Holistic Health Coach
Lifestyle120.com
When your spirit is nourished, your inner light produces an outer glow reflecting your beauty and truth.