Short regular breaks from work boosts energy levels

By Pol Allingham via SWNS

A short regular break from work boosts energy levels, according to a new study.

Ten minute breaks, dubbed micro breaks boost people’s vigor and decreases their fatigue.

In fact longer breaks actually increased performance as well as energy levels, according to the study by West University of Timisoara, Romania (WUT).

The researchers say their findings show micro-breaks are a potentially useful strategy to help wellbeing in the workplace, as heavy workloads and long shifts become increasingly common.

The study published in the journal PLOS ONE showed that creative and clerical tasks were helped the most by a longer pause.

And more mentally demanding tasks needed even more time off to positively impact performance.

Until now, many studies looked at how workers can recover after the work day, but recovering during the workday remains unclear.

Patricia Albulescu, from WUT, and her team examined 22 studies about micro-breaks and their benefits published in the last 30 years.

Participants took a little pause on various tasks, including work simulations, real work-related tasks, and non-work-related cognitive tests.

The time away was spent taking physical breaks, doing relaxing activities and more engaging activities, such as watching videos.

Next, the authors suggested research could look at the best activity to do in the breaks.

Albulescu said: "Our results revealed that micro-breaks are efficient in preserving high levels of vigor and alleviating fatigue."