6 Ways to Maximize Your Lunch Break

Lunch is usually just an extra hour to get some more work done or finish your homework before class. The quicker you get through your to-do list, the closer you are to finishing your work for the day, right?

The thing about not taking your lunch break, is that it actually can make you LESS productive, and drain your problem-solving and creative power. So, let’s take back the lunch break. Give yourself an hour in the middle of the day to rejuvenate, and the rest of your day will be more fulfilling. Here are 6 ways to maximize your lunch break.

1. Grab lunch with a friend. Sitting at your desk and inhaling your packed lunch doesn’t leave your stomach feeling satisfied or give you any much-needed connection time away from your screen. Make time for a leisurely lunch with a friend or loved one and see how much your mood changes!
2. Take a walk. Getting out in some fresh air and away from sitting at your desk is great for your health. Stretch your legs and refresh your view with some new surroundings. If you work or attend classes downtown, the Sheldon Art Museum is open and free during the week for an artsy walk that might just inspire you.
3. Make your lunch. If you’re near home, whipping up a quick lunch can be a good break away from your screen and help you be more mindful of and rewarded by your lunch. If you’re away from home, simply assembling your lunch on a plate and eating away from your desk will give you time to recharge.
4. Sweat. If you’ve got an hour, you’ve got time for a quick workout over lunch! If you want to turn your heart rate all the way up, take one of our flyburn, flyphysique or flyride classes. Or, break up tension midday with our flyyoga series and leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. P.S. Fly has showers and plenty of space to get ready if you work up a sweat!
5. Powernap. There ain’t nothin’ wrong with a little noon-time nap. If you’re the type who can take a 20-minute nap and wake up refreshed, do it! If you work full time, recline that car seat and catch some z’s in the parking garage. If you’re at home, reacquaint yourself your bed or cozy up on the couch.
6. Take a screen break. Flip through a magazine, read a few chapters of a book, draw, or journal. Whatever it is, try to set aside part of your lunch break to give your eyes a break from the screen.

Challenge yourself to actually break for your lunch break. Your body and mind need a break from work, errands, and school. Taking full advantage of your lunch break can help creatively stimulate you, boost your mood, and get your blood pumping.