The humble lunch break has become a casualty of our productivity-obsessed culture. Many professionals now eat at their desks while continuing to work. A clinical psychologist argues that reclaiming this time for a genuine break is a critical and overlooked strategy for managing physiological stress.
Eating while working or stressed keeps your body in a “fight or flight” mode. This is terrible for digestion, as your body is not in the “rest and digest” state required to properly process food. This is a direct cause of many of the digestive issues linked to stress.
A proper lunch break is, in essence, an extended micro-break. It’s a chance to step away from your work, both physically and mentally. This allows your nervous system to downshift, reducing the level of stress hormones in your body and giving your brain a much-needed rest.
The expert suggests using this time mindfully. Eat your food without distractions. If possible, get some fresh air. Use the time to do something enjoyable. Reclaiming this midday reset can have a profound impact on your stress levels, energy, and productivity for the rest of the afternoon. It is a simple but powerful act of self-care.