Productivity down? — Movement helps!
Do you sometimes catch yourself not being able to focus? Getting distracted easily? Feeling anxious for no obvious reason? Or like your creativity has vanished and your energy level has dropped to zero although it’s only 2pm?
If you can relate to any of these symptoms, read on because I’m going to share 5 simple tips that help me get back on track with getting stuff done, and they can also work for you:
1. Simply move to a different space. Now, I do spend most of my time at my desk, just because it’s the most ergonomic set-up I have in my home office. But I’ve made it a habit to move to the dinner table whenever I feel a need for a “change in perspective.” It’s done wonders for me, and it’s an excellent way to get your energy unstuck when you’re on a tight schedule.
If you work in an office where you can swirl your chair around to a different desk area, that’s a valid option. Or maybe your workplace offers the luxury of moving to a completely different space for an hour or two, like a quiet cafeteria or a meeting room — perfect!
2. Do 5 minutes of Brain Gym® exercises. I didn’t invent this, though I wish I did because it’s just brilliant! Check out the Brain Boost exercises on the Dennisons’ website and get the double effect of loosening up your limbs and increasing your brain’s focus. Perfect for a reinvigorating brain and body break!
3. Here’s one thing I did proudly come up with: Power Dancing, for which I was also featured on Forbes a few years ago. While I highly respect Amy Cuddy for her Power Posing research, I’m a movement person and I love dance, so Power Dancing is the most effective way for me to get my creative juices flowing and boost my productivity. Next time you sense that antsy feeling creeping in, take a dance break! This is also how I often start my day.
4. The classic walk around the block. — But wait! While you’re walking, make sure to be fully present and dedicate your attention to everything you see. If you’re lucky enough to have a park nearby and find some trees and bushes on your way, touch the plants, listen to the birds, appreciate your surroundings so you rid yourself of any anxiety and get the maximum recreation from the healing power of Nature. Restart completely refreshed!
5. If going outside is not an option, try one of the mini yoga classes you can find online. I personally love Yoga with Adriene. She and other yoga teachers offer lots of short and sweet videos that help you rewind body and mind for a fresh start. As far as I’m concerned, yoga is the perfect rebound for a rainy day, but of course the weather is always perfect for yoga.
Try it and see what works for you! What’s key is to stay playful and have some fun with it. Because, as the old adage says: No fun, no gain!
