The idea of taking a break to improve productivity might sound counterintuitive, but a clinical psychologist explains that the science is clear: short, mindful “micro-breaks” can have a macro-level impact on your well-being and performance by directly combating the physiological effects of stress.
Your brain’s prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for focus and decision-making, is like a muscle; it gets fatigued with continuous use. The stress of constant work keeps your body in a state of high arousal. This combination leads to mental fog, mistakes, and eventual burnout.
A micro-break—even just 30-60 seconds of deep breathing, stretching, or looking away from your screen—acts as a reset button for your nervous system. It interrupts the production of stress hormones and allows your prefrontal cortex a moment to recover. It shifts you out of a state of high alert and into a more relaxed, focused state.
The psychologist emphasizes that these are not breaks from work, but breaks for work. They are a strategic tool to maintain high cognitive function throughout the day. When integrated into a broader stress-management strategy that includes healthy boundaries and a resilient mindset, they become a powerful force for sustainable productivity and health.