Five lunchbreak ideas for reducing workplace stress and improving your mental health at work

Stress is an inevitable part of the working day. Long hours, global working and looming deadlines mean that a certain level of urgency at work is unavoidable. However, while a little stress is to be expected, it’s vital to make sure that it doesn’t escalate and have a negative effect on your mental health or spill over into your home time.

Fortunately, small changes can have a big impact. Dealing with stress and anxiety is easier to do in increments, and forming good habits can inform a significant overall change. One easy place to start is with your lunchbreak. Here are some simple ideas for ways to use your precious breaktimes to reduce stress and boost your mental health:

1. Step away from the desk

A great first step to implementing healthier break habits is to stop eating on the go or at your desk. Heading to a break room or cafeteria to unplug, socialise or even read a book can help boost energy levels and reduce stress.

2. Take a walk

Going one step further than getting away from your desk is using your lunchbreak to get some fresh air and go for a walk. Walking for just 30 minutes a day has been shown to decrease tension, increase energy levels and improve focus during the afternoon.

3. Get your workout in

A lunchbreak can also be the perfect time for your daily workout. Not only will it free up mornings or evenings usually spent exercising, working out is a proven way to relieve stress and anxiety, improve sleep and productivity. If you can’t make it to a gym or can’t get out of the office, even doing some easy exercises at your desk can make a big difference.

4. Meditate or practice mindfulness

Your lunchbreak is a great opportunity to take some time to meditate. A powerful tool for fighting anxiety, meditation increases relaxation, restores energy and improves concentration. Of course, meditation might not be for everyone, but even finding a quiet place to do some breathing exercises can have mental health benefits, such as slowing your heart rate, which has an immediate effect on anxiety.

5. Check in with friends

Studies have long proven that having friends is good for your mental health, and a lunchbreak is the ideal chance to catch up with friends — whether face to face over a quick coffee or simply over the phone.

Looking after your mental health is vital to maintaining your physical health and keeping yourself happy and productive at work. Start taking these small steps today and enjoy significant benefits in the long term.

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