Micro breaks are short breaks (typically 2 minutes) that allow your body to recover from the stress and strain of continuously sitting in a chair and looking at a computer screen. It is recommended to take a micro-break every 15-30 minutes that includes some form of movement: the human body is not made to sit still for 6-8 hours a day! They can range from going for a short walk, doing some stretches, or changing the repetitive demands of a task. For example, you could switch from responding to emails to walking to the fax machine. Micro-breaks may help to reduce stress, decrease the risk of repetitive strain injuries and physical discomfort, as well as increase blood flow, energy and productivity at work. Although taking micro-breaks appears to be a small change, making it part of your day can have large physical and emotional benefits.

Stacey Bulat, BKin-AT CAT(C) Certified Athletic Therapist, www.vitallifeclinic.ca