Seven out of ten adults in the United States say they experience stress or anxiety daily. According to the most recent survey by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America most adults say stress moderately interferers with their lives. National Leave the Office Early Day was created in 2004 by author Laura Stack. Laura noticed that the average American works about 49 hours per week. Annually that equates to 350 more hours than the average European. This can have a destructive impact on both the physical and mental health of employees.
Studies have shown that breaks lead to higher productivity greater job satisfaction, and a more balanced emotional health. Taking breaks gives employees time to reevaluate their work goals, improve creativity, and improve overall mental health. Most experts recommend taking breaks every 25 to 90 minutes. National Leave the Office Early Day encourages those in the workforce to get out of their work space before the conventional wrap-up time.
How to decrease stress levels?
Now that you’ve left the office what should you do to decrease your stress levels? Medical workers recommend exercise as one of the best natural strategies for combating stress and anxiety. Anxiety is attributed to imbalances in naturally occurring chemical messengers in the brain known as neurotransmitters. Specifically, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid are believed to be linked to mood and anxiety. Aerobic exercise is known to increase your brain's production of endorphins or “feel-good” neurotransmitters. Physical activity improves your body’s ability to use oxygen and improves overall blood flow.
The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that help to get rid of body toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials. Unlike the cardiovascular system, which pumps blood automatically, the lymphatic system relies on our conscious body movement as the pump. Aerobic exercise, like trampolining, can increase the lymphatic flow almost 30x. This helps flush the body of negative substances and create a rush of positive hormones and compounds.
Taking a break is important to reduce fatigue, improve alertness, concentration, and enhance overall cognitive function. In the long run your boss will thank you for showing your body extra love and protecting your mental health.