Pretty sure we’ve all been here. You’re at the office, ready to attack the most important tasks for the day; focused, sharp and productive. After a couple of hours though, you find your mind wandering, you’re checking you phone, maybe scrolling social media, or reading a news website. You make another coffee (even though you don’t really feel like one) and tidy up the lunchroom. It’s at this stage you realise you’re not achieving what you set out to this morning. What’s going on?

It’s not uncommon to experience these productivity slumps during the workday. The challenge though is being able to get back on track and redirect your focus. How can we do this though? Well, one simple solution that can help you feel more energised and focused: being more active.

Research has shown that being more active during the workday can have a significant impact on productivity. Let’s check out a few ways using active breaks can help you be more productive:

Boosts energy

When you sit at your desk for hours on end, your energy levels can dip, making it hard to stay focused and alert. But when you get up and move around, even just for a few minutes, you increase blood flow and oxygen to your brain, which can help boost energy levels and improve focus.

Reduces stress

Physical activity is a natural stress reliever, and stress can be a major productivity killer. By taking a quick walk or doing some simple stretches, you can help reduce stress levels and feel more relaxed, which can help you be more productive.

Increases creativity

Physical activity has been shown to stimulate creativity, and creativity is an important component of productivity. When you’re feeling stuck or uninspired, taking a break to move your body can help you come up with fresh ideas and new solutions.

Improves mood

When you’re in a good mood, you’re more likely to be productive and efficient. Physical activity has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. By being more active during the work day, you can improve your mood and increase productivity.

Enhances focus

Physical activity can help improve cognitive function, including focus and attention. By taking a quick walk or doing some simple exercises, you can increase blood flow to your brain and improve cognitive function, which can help you be more productive and efficient.

OK, so that all sounds great I hear you say. But how are we actually supposed to realise these benefits, especially if we’re expected to be in the office most of the workday? Here are some simple strategies:

1. Take regular, short active breaks

Set a timer to remind yourself to take active breaks every hour or so. Use these breaks to stretch, take a quick walk, or simply stand-up at your desk for 5 minutes to get the blood flowing again!

2. Use a walking pad

Walking pads are a convenient, effective and simple way to increase your activity in the office. Not only do you not have to leave your office (if you don’t want to), but you can reap the benefits of getting your body moving whilst continuing to be productive with your work tasks. How else can a walking pad help you? Find out more here.

3. Walk and talk

Instead of scheduling a meeting in a conference room, suggest a walking meeting. Walking and talking can help boost creativity and increase productivity. It has also been estimated that walking meetings can boost creativity by up to 60%!

4. Take the stairs

Instead of taking the elevator, take the stairs whenever possible. This simple change can help increase physical activity and boost energy levels.

5. Use a sit/stand desk

Standing desks have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Standing can help improve posture, reduce back pain, and increase energy levels.

So, we know being more active during the work day can have significant benefits for productivity. What is one thing from the list that you will commit to doing? Why not try some of these simple strategies for incorporating active breaks into your work day and see what impact it has on your mood, focus and productivity? Let me know which one works best for you!