Embracing Lunch Breaks for Enhanced Well-being

by Fatima Jalloh, LPCACT Therapist & Adapt Training & Development


In our continuous journey towards wellness, it’s essential to revisit the basics of self-care, particularly the significance of taking breaks and enjoying lunch during our workday.

This insight, generously shared by Fatima Jalloh, a therapist with the Douglas County ACT program, emphasizes the profound impact of these practices on our overall well-being and productivity.

The Essential Break

Within the hustle of daily tasks and responsibilities, the value of scheduling your lunch and regular breaks cannot be overstated.

As a cornerstone of self-care, these moments of pause are not merely breaks in our schedule but are pivotal for recharging our mental and physical batteries. Research consistently shows that breaks, especially lunchtime, are crucial for not only maintaining our physical health but also enhancing our cognitive functions.

By stepping away from our workspaces or the chores of life, we allow our minds to refresh, fostering improved focus, creativity, and problem-solving upon our return.

Overcoming Time Constraints

The common refrain “I don’t have time to eat or take a break” reflects a challenge many of us face. Yet, what if we shifted our perspective to see time not as a barrier but as a resource we can manage?

For the remainder of 2024, let’s commit to prioritizing our lunch breaks and daily pauses. This commitment involves open communication with our family, our work team members, and one another about the necessity of these breaks for our well-being and productivity. By setting a positive example and fostering a culture that values these moments of self-care, we encourage a supportive community where everyone can thrive.