Awareness,  Culture,  Decor,  Dwell,  Food,  Life Management,  Lifestyle,  Nutrition,  Play,  Relationships,  Slideshow,  Wellness,  Writing

Tips for taking mini-breaks during your busy workweek!

You know how it is, you push yourself all day long and find around 3 o’clock you are done.  At least you would like to be done for the day, but as a busy parent that isn’t likely!  I remind myself to take little breaks throughout the day because sitting in front of the computer all day is just not good for my health.  I heard something along these lines that “sitting all day is for our generation is what smoking was for previous generations.”  Basically, if you have a job that requires you to sit most of the day, be sure to get up and move around from time to time!  Here are some of my favorite ways to take some downtime during the workweek.

 

My dog thinks it is his job to take me for walks...
My dog thinks it is his job to take me for walks…

Go for a quick walk:

When I need a break, I grab my dog and head out the door for at least a twenty minute walk.  This helps with any stress I might be feeling and it helps to clear my head.  If you don’t work out of the home, try to get some walking in during your lunch break.  My husband is notorious for making sure he gets his daily walk in and will opt to walk to a nearby restaurant rather than drive during the week.

 

One of my favorite teas to go along with one of my favorite tea cups I picked up during my travels through Thailand. Isn't she pretty?!
One of my favorite teas to go along with one of my favorite tea cups I picked up during my travels through Thailand. Isn’t she pretty?!

Have a cup of tea:

Growing up I would see my mom drink her cup of Lipton Tea just about everyday.  It was her daily ritual that I have continued on in my life. I find that it helps me to refocus on the task at hand if I take a few minutes for some downtime with a cup of tea.  Throughout the years I’ve collected tea cups and teapots during my travels abroad.  Here are some of my favorite Lipton teas and pottery I wanted to share with you!

 

Some of my favorite Lipton teas include their new herbal teas such as Orange Passionfruit Jasmine and Peach Mango.  I like to drink the Peach Mango hot or cold and they even provide a yummy recipe on the packaging which include pineapple juice, lime squeeze and a mint leaf to top it off equals the perfect hot weather beverage!

 

This antique Japanese teapot and cup were picked up in a little antique shop in Japan. I can still remember the side streets I walked down to get to the shop. It goes perfect with Greentea and brings back fond memories!
This antique Japanese teapot and cup were picked up in a little antique shop in Japan. I can still remember the side streets I walked down to get to the shop. It goes perfect with Greentea and brings back fond memories!

Living in Japan I attended a green tea ceremony that was quite spectacular.  From the bowls and tea ceremony to the dress worn by the hostess, it was one of those memories that will be with me forever.  I did find the green tea very strong and bitter!  I am happy to report that Lipton’s 100% natural Greentea does not have that bitter taste but is quite delicious.  I love that their teas are Rainforest Alliance Certified which means the are working with the alliance to improve the social, environmental and economic conditions of the people who grow and pick every leaf they use in their products. Check out the full line-up of Lipton Green, Black and Herbal tea flavors here.

 

Call a friend

Reaching out to friends during the day is a nice respite from your daily routine.  Whether you email or give them a call, it helps break up the day and actually releases those feel-good hormones needed to keep you happy.

 

This teapot is from Finland and was picked up at an estate sale. It goes perfectly with my favorite tea - Peach Mango which is great hot or cold!
This teapot is from Finland and was picked up at an estate sale. It goes perfectly with my favorite tea – Peach Mango which is great hot or cold!

Write a note

Sending handwritten notes to friends and family is a great way to stay connected and lets others know you are thinking of them!  I found some pretty Thank You cards at our local discount store (Marshalls) and usually write them while having my mid-afternoon tea. I find this really helps relax me and is a great way to show others you are thinking of them.

 

Recipes.minestronesoup.one.CbxJz-vUkAAKJCz

Take Time Out for a Good Meal:

Try to take a break during your busy day and set up a nice plate of healthy food for yourself.  I just posted my favorite vegetable soup recipe here you can try out this week!  Use a placemat, pretty napkin and plates.  You deserve it!

 

What are ways you take some downtime during the day?

 

 

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

0

Melissa Northway, M.S. is a mom, founder of dandelion moms, and a children’s book author. Her award-winning book Penelope the Purple Pirate was inspired by her little tomboy. Penelope is a modern-day Pippi Longstocking who teaches girls and boys the importance of having fun while at the same time teaching them to be kind and respectful of others and their differences. Dandelion moms was created for moms to share their stories and to inspire and be inspired! You can reach Melissa at: info@dandelionmoms.com and follow her @melissanorthway and @dandelionmoms. Check out her author web site at: www.melissanorthway.com, as she hands out loads of goodies from the treasure chest.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *