Wellness

Resolution #6: Take more breaks. Yes, most small business owners are busy 24/7—and  likely to be short-staffed, underfunded and the proverbial wearer of many hats. But numerous studies have shown taking short breaks re-energizes us physically and mentally.

Psychology Today says:

1—Movement breaks are essential for our physical and emotional health. Just a 5-minute walk every hour can improve your health and well-being.

2—Breaks restore motivation, especially for long-term goals. According to author Nir Eyal, when we’re working on “a challenging task that requires our sustained attention, research shows briefly taking our minds off the goal can renew and strengthen motivation later on.”

3—Breaks increase productivity and creativity. “Aha moments” came more often to those who took breaks, according to research.

4—“Waking rest” helps consolidate memories and improve learning. Scientists have known for some time that one purpose of sleep is to consolidate memories. However, there is also evidence that resting while awake likewise improves memory formation. During a rest period, it appears that the brain reviews and ingrains what it previously learned.