Take a Break

Do you ever feel like taking a break from news, emails, phone calls, texting, social media and just focus on the real world? Give it a try for a new year’s resolution and see if you enjoy a break! Here are a few key points that might make you want to disconnect temporarily. • Improve mental well-being: reduce anxiety and stress from constant online stimulation. • Improve sleep: less screen time before bed can lead to better sleep quality. • Quality time with others: more present and engaged in face-to-face interactions and activities. • Self-reflection: time to contemplate and connect with yourself without digital input and distraction. • Increased focus: less distractions can enhance concentration on where you are and what you’re doing.

Stressed? A few Good Tips!

When we’re stressed, we’re less able to focus and we’re doing damage to our overall health. Here are some science-based methods for de-stressing quickly. • Breathe – Stress makes us take short breaths. Concentrate on deep breaths through the nose, exhaling through the mouth, for several minutes to increase oxygen flow and reduce tension. • Pattern Reset – Forcing your brain to focus on something else, such as the repetitive task of doing dishes or knitting, can help get your mind off whatever’s bothering you. • Go for a Walk – Not only will a 10-minute walk physically remove you from any stressful situation, the exercise releases stress-relieving endorphins in your brain. Dancing to your favorite song works, too. • Take an e-Break – We love technology, but it can also cause a huge amount of stress. Turn off your phone or computer to increase your ability to relax, and don’t leave your email inbox open all day. • Have a Snack – It’s important to be mindful about snacking (stress eating is nobody’s friend), but some nibbles can be helpful. Potassium can help modulate blood pressure, which can in turn reduce stress levels, so have a banana. Something like a handful of nuts offers a satisfying crunch and the energy your brain needs to get past the stress.