Ashneer Grover advises Nithin Kamath to ‘take a break’ after mild stroke. This is why he’s right

Dude – take care. Most likely you are deeply affected because of passing away of your dad – it got me too after my dad’s demise – I simply collapsed one day. Take a break !

— Ashneer Grover (@Ashneer_Grover) February 26, 2024

According to Dr Ather Pasha, consultant, internal medicine, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, taking breaks is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

“When we engage in continuous work without pauses, it can lead to burnout, heightened stress levels, and a general decline in mental and physical health. Breaks provide a necessary opportunity for the body and mind to recuperate, promoting a healthier work-life balance,” Dr Pasha told indianexpress.com in an interaction.

Dr Evelyn Raghel Thomas, psychologist and clinical director – employee assistance program, Truworth Wellness, agreed, adding that by incorporating intentional breaks and mindful micro-habits into your routine, you can prioritise your well-being and optimise your emotional health for long-term success.

Here are some techniques, she recommended.

Intentional Breaks: Short, intentional breaks throughout the day can be more effective than sporadic, unplanned ones.

Pomodoro Technique: Work in focused 25-minute intervals with short breaks in between.

Define Your Purpose: Before taking a break, ask yourself, “What do I need this break for?” Is it for physical rejuvenation, a emotional refresh, or to connect with yourself? Aligning the break with your purpose will enhance its effectiveness.

Micro-Habits: Incorporate small, mindful habits into your daily routine. Short stretches, mindful breathing exercises, or even a walk around the office can significantly improve your emotional well-being.

“Our mind and body are deeply intertwined. The initial signs of skipping breaks might be subtle, like fatigue and decreased motivation. However, long-term consequences can be severe burnout, isolation and decreased quality of life (both physical and emotional exhaustion),” Dr Thomas said.

 

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A post shared by Nithin Kamath (@nithinkamath)

According to Dr Pasha, other physical problems include:

• Chronic health conditions (hypertension/heart disease)
• Musculoskeletal issues (muscle stiffness, pain, and discomfort in the neck, back, and shoulders; or repetitive strain injuries)
• Eye strain (dryness, irritation, and blurred vision)

Dr Thomas advocated going beyond just breaks. “I believe in going beyond just breaks and suggest people create a space for rejuvenation. The concept of “space” goes beyond simply taking breaks. It’s about intentionally creating moments in your routine for personal growth and rejuvenation.”

This is how you can do that.

Designing a Dedicated Space: Create a physical space for yourself, even if it’s a small corner, where you can relax, reflect, and unwind.

Incorporating Micro-Activities: Integrate small practices like short walks, mindful breathing exercises, or hobbies into your day to contribute to holistic well-being.

Shifting from “Obligation” to “Intention”: Instead of feeling obligated to take a break, approach it with intention. Ask yourself, “What do I need from this break?” to maximise its benefit.