Downtime plays a fundamental role in work-life balance<\/a> and productivity in the workplace. Even though our brains never actually stop working, the way they work differs depending on what we\u2019re doing. The difference between work and downtime<\/a> is easier to understand if you look at the brain from a neuroscience perspective, particularly when it comes to stress.<\/p>\n Tight deadlines and working under pressure cause our brains to go into a sympathetic state. At work, many of us are in a constant state of hyperarousal. While the fight or flight response we experience in this state can be motivating, it can also be harmful if it\u2019s too intense or happens too often. Continuously activating the sympathetic state, or being under lots of stress, can wear out the organs and result in long-term health issues.<\/p>\n By conditioning our bodies to react to work with stress hormones, we make it harder to change the response and relax.<\/p>\n To determine if you\u2019re in a state of hyperarousal, begin by observing your body language. Somatic symptoms for sympathetic activity include:<\/p>\n Conversely, the parasympathetic state is when our bodies rest and digest, and chemicals like serotonin and dopamine allow our minds to recharge.<\/p>\n If our brains and bodies signal that it\u2019s time to take a break and we don\u2019t listen, burnout<\/a> is likely to happen. Whether we choose to ignore the signs or don\u2019t even know what they are, our bodies and brains can only take so much before they say enough is enough and shut down to protect us. People who experience burnout cannot function properly. They do not experience fulfilment at work or feel like they have a purpose. Eventually, they end up reaching a level of exhaustion that demands rest.<\/p>\n Have you ever wondered why your brain needs sleep<\/a>? Our brains cannot run without sleep in the same way a car cannot run without gas. Lack of sleep is one of the many effects of an always-on culture, and a reason why downtime is crucial.<\/p>\n Despite always working, different types of breaks do different things to the brain. That means the brain can differentiate between taking a break from work, breaks for creativity, and sleep. It basically comes down to the amount of effort required. That\u2019s why leaving the office to see to your personal responsibilities doesn\u2019t actually allow your brain to rest.<\/p>\n A real break is void of any responsibility. While you can spend downtime in any way you like, you\u2019ll get the most out of it by engaging in activities that fulfil you on an emotional level. Reconsider turning on Netflix to fill your free time and avoid obsessive thoughts about work. Instead, disconnect from work with activities that provide active recovery for your brain. You can go on walks, have dance breaks, grab your art supplies, or do whatever feels good – and do it regularly.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re having trouble switching between work and relax mode, it can be helpful to establish a closing ritual<\/a>. Ending the workday in the same way every day can help rewrite your habits. Clean up your workspace, create a to-do list, write a gratitude list, or do anything else that prepares you to leave work and start relaxing. Meditation is another powerful tool, especially if you continue to think about work when you shouldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n However you choose to recover from the workday, know that taking time to properly unwind will help you live a more balanced, more productive, and overall healthier life.<\/p>\n Worry about one less thing by securing health insurance. With the right health insurance plan, you can confidently access quality medical care whenever you need it. But choosing the best private health insurance in the UK<\/a> can be tricky without insurance expertise. That\u2019s where Pacific Prime UK comes in.<\/p>\n As a leading broker with over 20 years of industry experience and a team of expert advisors, we have the knowledge and expertise to find you a suitable health insurance plan<\/a> in the UK or anywhere in the world.<\/p>\n Contact us<\/a> for impartial advice and a free plan comparison today!<\/p>\n![\"Individual](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.pacificprime.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/PPUK-blog-banners-1138x493-px_02-03.jpg?resize=700%2C303&ssl=1\")
<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\nWhy your brain needs more downtime<\/h2>\n
How to tell if you\u2019re in a sympathetic state<\/h3>\n
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When stress turns to burnout<\/h2>\n
How to switch from work to relax mode<\/h2>\n
Put your health first with Pacific Prime UK<\/h2>\n
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