Did you know? Taking breaks, even for just 15-20 minutes, has been proven to sustain concentration and energy levels throughout the day? And not taking breaks reduces our ability to be creative? Give your employees a healthy break and help them have fun while getting fit with these fun spring/summer wellness ideas.

1. Summer Strides

Studies have shown an outdoor walk in nature can refresh our attention span so we can return to work with a clear mind and greater focus. Consider offering employees a regular walk where employees meet at a designated location and head out for 30 minutes of cardio and fresh air. Any frequency and time of day works – daily, every other day, weekly, mid-morning, lunchtime, afternoon.

2. Host a Fit & Healthy Feast

Host a summer picnic featuring fresh, healthy foods. Invite employees to bring a favorite dish and reward those who do with wellness program points. If your company is too large for this type of event, consider offering fresh, healthy seasonal fare in your cafeteria and rewarding employees each time they purchase a “Fit & Healthy” meal.

3. Savasana in the Sun

Outdoor yoga is a fan favorite! Not only does yoga improve our ability to concentrate and manage stress but doing outdoor yoga helps reset both the body and mind. Take advantage of nearby outdoor space by hiring a local yoga instructor to teach classes before or after work. Provide mats and props (blocks, straps, etc.) to make it easy for employees to attend classes.

4. Host a Summer Recipe Showdown

Ask employees to submit healthy BBQ and picnic recipes and put them all together in a company summer “cookbook.” Reward all participants and choose the top three to win a prize (e.g., picnic basket, kitchen store gift card, Fitbit).

5. Plan an Office Field Day

Exercise reduces stress, improves mood and increases confidence and self-esteem. And physical performance and muscle strength are at their peak (and risk of injury at its lowest), between 3-6 p.m. So plan a fun run/walk, offer yoga on the lawn, or a start up a soccer, softball or volleyball game and encourage your employees to get outside for some fresh air and exercise.