Green, especially in nature, is calming. All the early spring green which is emerging outside reminds me of one of my favorite ideas for regaining productivity during a busy day: “green breaks.”  Judith Kohlberg and Kathleen Nadeau describe them in their book ADD-Friendly Ways to Organize Your Life. Try this refreshing productivity technique when you’re feeling overwhelmed:

1. Stand up and face something green (the tree outside your window, a potted plant, a poster of a green pasture, etc.). 

2. Focus on the greenery.

3. Breathe in slowly and feel your chest rise.

4. Exhale slowly. Be sure to let out all the air.

5. Breathe in again, and this time raise your arms over your head while you inhale.  Then lower your arms as you exhale.

6. Drink a glass of water.

7. Rock slowly from side to side.

8. Return to the task at hand.

The beauty of the “green break” (aside from looking at something that is naturally beautiful) is that it relaxes and refreshes you and brings you back to a state of alertness without taking you far from your task.  A “green break” will re-energize you even if you don’t have the time for a longer break. Your commitment to productivity will be more enjoyable if you honor your need for time to reset.

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