Going outside for lunch
The Basics
Leaving your desk/office and stepping outside for some fresh air will clear your head for the afternoon, even if it’s for 5 minutes (that’s still a 5 minute improvement). Your concentration and mood can be affected by staying in a stuffy office all day so the benefits of stepping out for a moment is two fold (practically multi tasking).
If you’re very busy – even a short break will improve concentration.
By eating elsewhere other than your regular canteen, office, restaurant (or vending machine) will give you a greater choice of foods.
Myths, misconceptions and excuses
- “I just don’t have the time.” In today’s work environment it’s all about time management, results and getting the job done – well. Think smart, if you have a clearer head and feel refreshed, productivity and concentration will improve – so that 5-10 minute break will probably help you achieve better results.
Tips & tricks
- Keep a pocket umbrella in your desk – perfect for those wet days and when someone needs to borrow one you’ll have one to hand – bonus!
- Offer to go and buy everyone’s lunch for them (don’t forget to ask for their money – unless you're very generous). Not only will you get outside, you’ll really increase your daily activity (especially if they order from a couple of different places), you’ll win some great smiles and appreciation.
- Pre-order your healthy lunch from your favourite food places – many offer fax ordering services. This way you won’t have to wait so long. (Skip the delivery services; it could cost more and you don’t get the activity benefits).
- Look around for any open spaces, parks or court yards where you can go to eat your lunch (weather permitting that is, although you have an umbrella haven't you!)
- Don’t feel bad or guilty leaving the office for lunch – you will actually feel better and refreshed for the time spent away from your desk. So after a healthy light lunch you will more than likely be more productive in the afternoon.
- The right lunch will avoid the mid afternoon ‘energy’ slump. Eating the right amount for your Nutrition card portions (not enough to make you feel like a beached whale) and favouring the starch group, (whole meal, brown or other higher fibre is always preferable). Not only will you be more productive – you will be far less inclined to want to snack on something like a chocolate bar or some other sugary snack – double bonus!
- Be careful when eating out at cafes and restaurants. They often serve special lunch time menus - choose wisely – see what ‘lite’ dishes they offer. Don’t be afraid to ask for something on the menu to be changed – it may take a little longer – Hold the mayo or dressing, ask for extra salad, or look for fruit or soups to help fill you up with lunch.