Why taking lunch breaks away from your desk is key to staying active and healthy
It’s tempting to eat lunch at your desk, especially during a busy workday. But staying seated for your break not only robs you of the opportunity to recharge mentally but also limits your movement, which is crucial for your musculoskeletal health. Taking your lunch break away from your desk encourages activity, improves posture, and helps you return to work refreshed and more productive.
The benefits of stepping away for lunch
- Promotes movement. Walking to a breakroom, cafeteria, or even a nearby park gets you out of your chair and allows your muscles and joints to reset. Movement improves circulation, reduces stiffness, and helps prevent musculoskeletal issues like back pain or neck tension.
- Breaks prolonged sitting. Sitting for extended periods stresses your lower back, hips, and shoulders. A lunch break away from your desk gives your body a much-needed change in posture, helping to relieve strain and improve alignment.
- Encourages better posture. Switching environments gives your body a chance to reset. When you return, you’re more likely to sit upright with a refreshed posture rather than continuing to slouch or remain in a static position.
- Boosts mental wellbeing. A change of scenery can reduce mental fatigue and stress. Moving around, even briefly, releases endorphins, enhancing mood and focus for the rest of the day.
How to make the most of your lunch break
- Choose an active location. Opt for a place encouraging movement, like a nearby park, a café down the street, or even a communal breakroom where you can walk to and from.
- Incorporate light activity. Use your lunch break for a quick walk or stretch. These activities counteract the effects of prolonged sitting and keep your muscles engaged.
- Engage with others. Socialising with colleagues during lunch, away from your desk, fosters connections and encourages a more dynamic, less sedentary environment.
- Reset your workspace post-break. After moving around, take a moment to adjust your chair, desk, and posture when you return. This will ensure that you start your next work session with good ergonomic habits.
The takeaway
Taking lunch breaks away from your desk isn’t just a chance to eat. It’s an opportunity to move, reset your posture, and recharge physically and mentally. By prioritising an active break, you support your musculoskeletal health, boost your energy levels, and improve your productivity for the rest of the day. So stretch away and let your lunch break work for you!
