10 Amazing Things to do during a Pomodoro Break
Pomodoro Technique has been there since 1980s and since then, is believed to have increased productivity. To put it simply, this is how it works- complete the task for 25 minutes and then take a break of 5 minutes. After 4 rounds, take a longer break of 15–20 minutes and then repeat.
For me, it seems to work wonders because I look forward to the 5 minutes break while working for 25 minutes. I see the break as a reward to me and therefore, give my best in every 25 minutes interval. Here are the 10 rewards I give to myself:
- Short Walk
A short walk gives me a sense of relaxation. The physical movement fills me up with energy and prevents me from sitting for long. Short walks have their own benefits. - Listening to Book Summary
I love getting introduced to new ideas. One of the ways I do it is through books. In the interest of time, I prefer reading or listening to the summaries of great books. Usually the summaries are divided into chapters. Therefore, in pomodoro break I finish a chapter and reserve the next chapters for next break. Some people prefer listening to songs too. - Clean-up/ Organizing
Decluttering the workspace increases the concentration and hence the productivity. It is always a good idea to use the pomodoro break for organizing files, papers and making the place neat and tidy. - Stretching
Can anything else be better than giving yourself a good stretch after sitting too much? I keep a list of stretching exercises ready so that I can quickly perform them all.
5. Cross-word/Puzzle
To have some fun between work, I solve cross-words or puzzles during breaks. I experience sudden increase in my energy level and also, keep myself sharper this way.
6. Breathing exercises
After deep breathing, I immediately experience a sense of calmness and tranquillity. Various breathing exercises have numerous benefits and they can definitely be availed during breaks.
7. Reading newspaper/ article
I also read an article from magazines or newspapers to get new insights, information and knowledge. I find it another good way to enjoy my pomodoro break.
8. Doodling/painting/ art work
Using the 5 minutes or 15 minutes break to complete a part of painting or art work is the best recreation. In this way, both my work and painting/art work gets completed and I thoroughly enjoying doing both.
9. Planning/ Journaling
I love utilising my 5 minutes break to fill up my planner or for bullet journaling. Most of all, I like to fill my gratitude journal as gratefulness makes my life beautiful.
10. Drinking Water and Relaxing
Let us not forget to not do anything too in our breaks. Sometimes, drinking water and relaxing is enough.
The longer 15–20 minutes break after 4 rounds, can offers opportunities to meditate, read books, take a nap and so on.
