By properly utilizing all the time you get for your break, you can actually give yourself the opportunity to be more productive and better focused at work. There are many different ways you can unwind and revitalize over even a half hour break.

Many people think that by not taking a break, or eating their lunch right at their desk, that they are getting more of their work done, or getting caught up on important projects. In fact, not only will you avoid getting food all over your desk and office supplies, you will also find yourself better focused if you use your break to re-energize your body and mind, which will therefore result in a higher level of quality and productivity. I'll give you some tips and ideas on ways you can better spend your break periods.

Relaxing, re-charging your mind and body, and relieving stress are the main things you want to try and achieve during a successful lunch break. Although it is generally going to be impossible for you to physically get away from work over your break, there are many ways that mentally you can escape. If possible, leave your building, even if it is just to go for a short walk. On your walk try and think about pleasant, low stress ideas. It can be very beneficial for you to completely abandon the "work" part of your brain. As a matter of fact, it will allow you to come back to what you're working on with a new sense of energy, and many times open your mind up to new ideas of how to complete your projects, that you may never have thought of. Another way to escape can be reading a book, magazine or newspaper. Some people may enjoy a crossword puzzle or sudoko or other types of puzzles, which have been proven to enhance brain activity and improve memory.

Exercise is very important, especially if you spend most of your day sitting. The human body is not designed to spend most of the day in one position. Not getting up and moving around not only slows your body functions down, but causes your brain to slow as well. Getting up every so often to do some stretching, and spending your lunch break running, or doing yoga can help you maintain energy and keep you focused all day long. Many companies are now providing fitness services right in their building. If you have a short lunch break, even just going on a little walk will help you return to your work feeling more awake and energized.

Not just what you do during your break has an effect on your overall level of awareness and well-being. Choosing the right foods can also determine your performance and productivity. Remember the old saying, "You are what you eat?" This is actually rooted in truth, and what we put into our bodies has a profound effect on how we feel and how much energy we have. Try sticking with lighter foods, and eating smaller portions throughout the day, instead of bogging your body down with one giant meal in the middle of the day. This is especially important if you aren't getting a normal level of exercise throughout the day.

By spending your lunch breaks focusing on yourself and letting your mind and body relax and rejuvenate, you will not just be helping yourself, but also your company. On top of this, you will also likely find yourself being happier and having more fun at work.