The real reason why we crave relaxation

Originally written for Perkbox by Dr. Steve G. Jones

Our society talks a lot about the importance of relaxation, especially in the work environment. But is it all just new age mumbo jumbo that wastes company dollars? I don’t think so, and there are studies to prove it too. This piece will discuss the need to slow down and take a break and how this can have positive impacts on both employees and employers.

The Physiological Design

The human body isn’t designed to expend energy continuously and those who try to do so often find themselves burnt out and less productive than their well-rested counterparts. In fact, the human body is meant to pulse between expending energy and resting. That means that relaxing is not only important to our mental well-being, but also to our physical well-being.

There have been a number of studies into our sleep cycles. In the 1950s, it was discovered that we sleep in 90-minute cycles, moving from light sleep to deep sleep and then back out again. A decade later, researchers discovered that this 90-minute cycle also exists during waking hours. During the day, our bodies move from a state of alertness into a state of physiological fatigue every 90 minutes. Our bodies let us know when we need to take a break but we override these signals with caffeine, sugar, and stress.

Professor K. Anders Ericsson and his associates at Florida State University conducted a study with elite performers in different fields. In each field, Ericsson found that individuals performed best in practice sessions that lasted no longer than 90 minutes. That means that we are more productive in 90-minute sprints with relaxation breaks in between. Those who consistently work through lunch, stay late, and check emails at home reach burn-out much quicker and are more likely to leave employers than those who make relaxation a priority.

The Natural Rhythm

Studies show that when we follow the natural rhythm of our bodies, we get more done in less time. The studies suggest you should work in 90-minute sprints and then take a break to restore your energy. But it’s not enough to lounge, or play on your phone. This doesn’t really allow you to disconnect and recharge your batteries. To truly relax, you must quiet your mind. Meditation and self-hypnosis are a great way to quiet the mind, but you can also take a nap during this time to help improve memory and performance. Quieting your mind to focus on the present moment is the best way to connect with your inner self and restore your energy.

It is not only employees who benefit from making relaxation a priority. Employers will also see improved staff productivity that often translates into boosted financial results. First, the amount of energy an employee brings to work is significantly more beneficial than the number of hours they put in. When employees are energetic, more work is completed in less time, productivity is increased and labour costs are decreased. What is more, office morale goes through the roof when employees are happy, meaning they are less likely to leave and saving the company money in the long run.

As you can see, it’s important for everyone to take breaks that focus on total relaxation because it reinvests your energy and focus. Whether you think it sounds new age or not, relaxation is vital to your health and happiness. So make time to relax during your working day!

To find out about how you can ensure your employees are as happy and productive as they can be at work, please click here to discover more about Perkbox.

Dr. Steve G. Jones is a clinical hypnotherapist who has been practicing hypnosis for over 25 years. He is the author of 22 books on hypnosis and has created over 9,000 hypnosis products. For a free hypnosis session, go here.

Perkbox is the UK's leading employee engagement provider. If you'd like to find out more about how we can help you to attract, engage and retain your team, click here: http://hud.by/mosfu

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