In honour of World Mental Health Day, we want to take a moment to remind you of the importance of mental well-being, even during the busiest workdays. Between meetings, deadlines, and projects, it’s easy to forget to pause and take care of yourself. So, here’s a short break to recharge your mind and soul in just five minutes. Take a moment to smile—it’ll make the rest of your day smoother!
1. A Quick Dog Break 🐶
What better way to de-stress than looking at some adorable dogs? Studies show that interacting with pets—even virtually—can reduce stress and elevate your mood.
2. A Minute of Calm 🧘♀️
When you’re overwhelmed, even a minute of focused breathing can work wonders. Close your eyes and try this quick, guided meditation here. It’s just five minutes long but will help you center yourself and reduce stress in no time.
3. Stories to Inspire You 🌟
Sometimes we all need a little pick-me-up. Here is a TED Talk by Kelly McGonigal, “How to Make Stress Your Friend”. It challenges the idea that stress is bad and shows us how a mindset shift can turn stress into something positive. It’s a great reminder that how we perceive our challenges can change everything.
4. Take 5 to Unwind
While it may seem impossible to carve out time during the day, research shows that even short breaks can boost productivity. Stand up, stretch, or walk around the office for a few minutes. You’ll return to your desk feeling refreshed, clear-headed, and more ready to tackle what’s next.
5. Motivational Reads for the Soul 📚
If you're feeling like you need more than a quick break, here are two highly recommended books that can help you reset and refocus:
“The Happiness Advantage” by Shawn Achor: A powerful look at how positive psychology can improve performance at work.
"Atomic Habits" by James Clear: A practical guide to building small habits that lead to big results, helping you stay in control of your time and energy.
Whether it's after work or over the weekend, diving into one of these can make a world of difference for your mindset.