How do you spend your lunch break? Do you quickly eat your sandwich while staring at the screen of your phone? Do you devour a salad at your desk while typing? Or do you skip lunch altogether because you have too much to do? Sometimes working hard means we forgo our lunch break in order to get more done. However, we all need energy from calories in our food for our minds to function at their best. Taking a midday break allows you to refuel and re-energize, often making you even more productive when you return. Forbes writer Jacquelyn Smith consulted workplace and career experts and compiled a list of things all workers should do during their lunch break to make the most of their time.

• Take a deep breath to start your break to help you relax and let go of any stress.
• Stopping for two minutes to eat at your desk doesn’t count as a real break. A true recovery break means you aren’t working, so try not to check your email or talk about work during lunch.
• Get up and walk to another room to eat or get outside for some fresh air and a quick walk. The movement can help you clear your mind and energize your body.
• Think of your break as time in your day to enjoy yourself. This could be enjoying your favorite healthy foods or enjoying the company of your friends or co-workers. Recovering at lunch can make you a healthier, happier and more productive person.

Source: forbes.com