It’s easy to fall into a routine that leaves little room for reflection and creative thinking. However, taking intentional breaks can be a powerful way to clear our minds, spark creativity, and generate new ideas.

So, what makes a break intentional? It’s about creating a space and time for specific activities that help clarify thinking. Here are some factors that can help you create the ideal environment for sparking creativity:

Sunshine: Exposure to sunlight is a natural mood booster and can help you feel more alert and energized. Take some time to sit outside, go for a walk or hike, or even just open a window to let some natural light in.

Saltwater swimming: Swimming in salt water can have a calming effect on the mind and body. The sensation of being weightless and surrounded by water can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Fitness: Engaging in physical activity can help release endorphins and increase blood flow to the brain, leading to improved cognitive function and a clearer mind. Find a form of fitness that works for you and is fun, whether going for a run, doing yoga, lifting weights, or swimming. The upside is you look good and feel good when you are fit.

Stepping away from “busy work” stress: Sometimes, we must disconnect from work to give our minds a break. This could mean taking a day off, setting aside dedicated time each day for personal activities, or finding ways to disconnect from work-related technologies.

Take a brain break to think: It’s important to have dedicated time and space for thinking and reflection. This could mean traveling and reading without distractions, one-on-one conversations where you play with ideas and let them percolate.

New stimuli: Exposure to new environments, people, and ideas can help spark creativity and generate new insights. Try traveling to a new place, attending a conference, or reading science fiction on a topic that interests you.

Finally, remember that creativity is a process that often has a long tail. Ideas and epiphanies may not come immediately but rather after you’ve returned to the routines and rituals of daily life. Give yourself the space and time to let ideas germinate and develop, and be open to new connections and insights that arise along the way.

Incorporating intentional breaks into your routine can profoundly impact your creativity and overall well-being. Creating a space that allows for clarity of thought and exposure to new stimuli allows you to tap into your full creative potential and generate new ideas that enhance your personal and professional life.