A Recipe for Productivity & Wellbeing
We want you to take your lunch break — and actually use it for yourself.
Stepping away from work isn’t a luxury; it’s an essential part of maintaining your energy, focus, and wellbeing.
Put your physical & mental health first
- Taking a proper break supports digestion and helps maintain consistent energy levels
- Resting your eyes and brain reduces strain and prevents headaches and fatigue
- Moving your body breaks up long periods of sitting – good for circulation, posture and mood.
Reset & refocus
- A change of environment gives your brain a chance to switch gears
- This mental “reset” is linked to better cognitive performance and sharper focus throughout the afternoon.
Boost productivity
- Regular breaks reduce mental fatigue, leading to better problem solving and fewer mistakes
- Many people find that stepping away sparks creativity and helps new ideas form naturally.
Prevent burnout
- Staying in constant “go mode” keeps the body in a stress response
- Pausing helps bring you back to baseline, making work more sustainable and enjoyable.
Encourage work-life balance
- A lunch break is a small but powerful boundary that protects your wellbeing both at work and at home
- Try a proper break instead of a coffee at your desk — even a quick wander can make a big difference!
Productive (and restorative) ways to use your lunch break:
- Step away from your desk — make use of communal spaces
- Go for a walk, stretch, hit the gym, or simply move your body
- Get fresh air and seek out a bit of nature
- Unplug: avoid screens when you can
- Catch up with co workers or meet a friend
- Read something enjoyable and non work related
- Make a cup of tea or hydrate properly
- Listen to music, an uplifting podcast, or an audiobook
- Do something creative: doodle, journal, crossword, wordsearch
- Take five minutes to meditate or breathe deeply.
Try to avoid:
- Sitting for the whole lunch break
- Eating while working or scrolling
- Spending the whole time on screens (even your phone) — it can increase cognitive fatigue
- Skipping lunch entirely.
Quick stats
- Average lunch break is now less than 33 minutes, and many employees skip one break every week
- 73% of workers say lunch breaks make them more productive
- 82% believe regular breaks are key to sustained performance.