Whether you’re working from home, it’s likely you’ve increased the amount of time you are spending in front of screens over the last year. It’s work access, social and family connection, political and civic engagement, and entertainment. It’s also very exhausting for the mind and the body.
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Whenever possible, I invite you to take a short break from looking at a screen. When you do, try one (or more) of these to give your mind and body some rest and restoration:

• Look at something about 20 feet away for about 20 seconds (or longer).
• If your body allows, stand up for 30 seconds.
• If your body allows, stretch your arms over your head and reach for the ceiling. Take a few deep breaths in and out while stretching your arms up. Release and pause. Notice what’s there – mind and body.
• Close the eyes and do some gentle neck rolls, a few times in one direction and a few times in the other. Re-center your neck and notice what’s there – body and mind.
• Gently raise your shoulders toward your ears, hold for a moment or two, and release. Repeat a few times. Pause when you feel ready to and notice your mind and body.
• Gently roll your shoulders forward, up, back and down a few times; then down, back, up and forward. When you’re ready to stop, do so and notice sensations in your body and the state of your mind.
• If your body allows, bend down, and let your arms rest on your quads, knees, shins, toes or the floor. You may choose to bend your knees just a little for less strain. Take some breaths here and hold for about 30 seconds. Slowly rise up; notice your body and mind once you’re fully upright.
• If possible, go outside. Even for a minute. Let yourself see the sky, daylight and the surroundings. Notice and name to yourself what you see.
• If possible, go for a short walk. It may be around the block, maybe just down the street and back. Invite yourself to notice something new or different.
• If it’s not possible to go outside, look out of the window for a bit. Name to yourself what you see around you.
• When you get back to the screen, close your eyes, take three full conscious breaths (know that you’re breathing in and out).

These short breaks can be helpful in resetting the mind, allowing the body to rest and restore. The subtle movements help bring more oxygen and energy through the body. 

Recently, I was interviewed for a video series on tips for parents of teens. I think anyone can benefit from these though.  Check out the video: