If we asked you to take a break right now, you’d probably say no, wouldn’t you?
Why?
Because you’re just too busy. You’ve got a to-do list that’s as long as your arm, and you’re probably reading this post while eating your lunch, flicking through your work emails and answering the phone.
However, sometimes, we’re all guilty of being so busy we don’t have time to think about what we’re doing or how we can improve our productivity, creativity and mindfulness. But you probably haven’t discovered the power of taking breaks at work.
Studies have demonstrated that taking a break during your workday helps boost your productivity. It can prevent your brain from becoming stagnant, inject some creativity into your mind and give you some motivation to get through the rest of the day. If you stay chained to your desk instead, you’re more likely to feel drained, exhausted and as though you haven’t achieved much, particularly during the afternoon.
Gaming Improves Your Brain Health
Not only is it beneficial to take a break from work, but taking this time to play a game could help your brain health, too. Scientists have discovered that active gaming helps improve the brain’s thinking and memory skills – another huge bonus when you’re working.
So, when 12 o’clock strikes, take some time out from your workload to enjoy some fun and interactive games.
Here’s our top pick of engaging games:
Sudoku
This game gained popularity not too long ago and since then, many people have gone on to look at just how beneficial Sudoku is for the brain. Many believe it stimulates your mind, improves your memory, helps you concentrate, elevates stress and can even stave off Alzheimer’s. That’s because it keeps your mind active and allows you to switch off from the world around you, even if it’s only for five minutes.
Bingo
When it comes to taking a break from the day-to-day stresses of your life and keeping your brain alert, research indicates that bingo is the game to play. Demanding your attention and focus as you listen to the numbers and find them on your board, bingo is great for engaging your mind – plus, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of getting a full house!
Furthermore, with online websites like Wink Bingo offering a variety of bingo games, you can choose one that fits in with your schedule, no matter how short your break may be. And, let’s face it, you’ll definitely have some renewed energy in the afternoon if you’ve won a prize.
Board Games
OK, so these aren’t ideal if you’re moving around on your lunch break, but if you and some of your colleagues are determined to take some time out, board games could be the answer. From traditional Monopoly to Scrabble – these games are ideal for playing for half an hour in the staff canteen. Just be prepared for a few requests to join in!
It doesn’t matter what game you decide to play on your lunch break, but what does matter is taking this time away from your desk. You may feel like you’re losing valuable time by doing so, but that 30 minutes break can work wonders for your productivity levels in the afternoon, and will also help elevate a lot of stress that’s built up over the morning. What’s more, once you get into the habit of playing a game when you’re taking a break, we’re pretty sure you won’t look back.