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What are micro-breaks and why do they matter? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: Many people feel they should push through the workday without stopping, so taking a pause can bring a bit of guilt.
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  SPEAKER_00: Microbreaks are short pauses of around one to five minutes taken at any point in the day.
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  SPEAKER_00: They give your mind and body a chance to recharge so you can return to your work with more focus and energy, as concentration naturally dips after long stretches of effort, and that is a normal response to sustained work.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now, microbreaks matter for a few reasons.
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  SPEAKER_00: Working for hours without a pause builds mental fatigue, and a short break lets your brain rest and refocus.
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  SPEAKER_00: Physically, sitting for long periods can leave you stiff and achy, and a quick stretch or walk can ease up tension.
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  SPEAKER_00: Many people also find they feel more focused and creative after a short pause, so a break can support the work you're doing.
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  SPEAKER_00: And stepping away briefly can also lower stress and give you a sense of control, which supports your mood and helps protect against burnout.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now micro breaks can be very simple, and practical ways you can support yourself with this might be to stand and stretch, to take a short walk, take a few slow breaths, look out of a window at something in a distance, have a drink of water or a snack, or chat with a colleague about something other than work.
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  SPEAKER_00: And you can choose whatever feels realistic for your day.
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  SPEAKER_00: And for timing, you might set a reminder once an hour, pause after finishing a task or a meeting, or take one whenever you notice your focus slipping or your stress rising.
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  SPEAKER_00: A starting small works well.
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  SPEAKER_00: So you might just pick one or two moments in your day and try them for a week and notice how you feel.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if you can, share this with your manager as many workplaces are open to ideas like quiet spaces and a culture where breaks are encouraged.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now if you are taking breaks and still feel exhausted, dread work, or find that stress is affecting your sleep mood or health, it might be worth speaking to your GP.
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  SPEAKER_00: At work, your line manager or HR team can talk through adjustments.
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  SPEAKER_00: And there is also Able Futures that offer the access to work mental health support service in England, Scotland and Wales, which you can call them for free on 0800 321 3137 to find out whether it is available to you.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now you can return to the app's resources or micro breaks and energy restoration for further support.
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  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.