Did you know that an estimated one in six working Americans gets a full hour’s lunch break? Or that 30% of us typically don’t leave our desks or offices at all during the day? As we celebrate National Take Back the Lunch Break Day on June 16, let’s re-think those statistics. We can do better than that.
With so many people now working remotely and/or in computer-related (i.e., sitting) jobs, it’s easy enough to simply “plow through your day” and eat at your desk, or while standing up in the kitchen. For many of us, the pandemic likely heightened those grim scenarios. Dr. Mark Hyman, an internationally recognized expert in the field of Functional Medicine, states that social isolation and loneliness are officially public health concerns, while inactivity is now the fourth leading cause of death globally. If that doesn’t make you want to step out for lunch with a friend, or take a short walk/trip to the gym during your break—what will?
Whether you work from home or are back in the office, it’s time to start over with some newer, healthier habits. Here are a few ideas to get you started (and one easy, delicious and healthy lunchbox recipe, too):
– Make a standing lunch date each week with a friend and stick to it. You might alternate between several friends or choose just one or two—but treat that time together as importantly as you do your job.
– If you’re eating (outside the office) solo, focus on your food. Put your phone on vibrate and take a few moments to appreciate some quiet time. Resist the urge to multi-task.
– It’s fine (and probably healthier) to bring your lunch and eat in your office’s break room or cafeteria but invite others to join you. Not only will you likely create a greater social connection with co-workers you might not have known otherwise, it’s simply more fun to socialize while eating.
And here’s that recipe:
Smoked Salmon Wraps
(use as much or as little of each ingredient as you like—it’s your lunchbox!)
– Flour or grain-free tortillas (larger tortillas are easier to roll)
– Smoked salmon
– Cream cheese (dairy or plant-based), softened slightly
– Sliced cucumbers, shredded carrots, red onion, micro greens, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, radishes—pile on whatever veggies you like
– Optional: capers, boiled egg (crumbled)
Warm your tortilla(s) slightly on a flat pan, about 5 seconds per side to make them pliable and less likely to crack. Spread cream cheese on entire surface, top with slices of smoked salmon, then veggies. Roll-up, burrito-style, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place in an insulated bag and later, enjoy!
Happy Lunch Break from Insights.