Sipping success: The power of a tea break at work
During a busy day, finding moments of rejuvenation can be a challenge – and in some workplace cultures, taking a break is viewed negatively. Yet, studies show that taking tea breaks can significantly improve productivity and wellbeing in the office. Did you know that 87% of workers believe tea breaks enhance their creativity and productivity? Surprisingly, despite this, many employees still forgo breaks due to busy schedules, with a staggering 76% feeling too occupied to take a proper pause during the day.
Tea may not be the new coffee, but there’s plenty to indicate that tea – and the good old-fashioned tea break - is still just as crucial an employee perk. In this blog, we explore why employers should encourage this time-honoured British tradition.
Coffee is for productivity, tea is for breaks
Coffee and tea both have their merits in the workplace, but it’s useful for employers offering drinks services to understand the difference in association.
Unlike coffee, which directly promotes productivity with its stimulating effects, the ritual of brewing and enjoying a cup of tea provides employees with a moment to step away from their tasks, recharge and refocus. Encouraging dedicated tea breaks at work tells your employees that you encourage them to come away from the productivity mindset and take a mental breather.
Plus, despite coffee being synonymous with office culture, there’s evidence that says tea is the preferred workplace beverage. Research by recruitment agency Pertemps spoke to employees from lorry drivers to office workers and found that just over half (51%) prefer tea to coffee.
Tea has lots of health – and workplace - benefits
Contrary to popular belief, tea dishes out numerous benefits and helps promote employee health and wellbeing in the workplace. With roughly 30-50mg of caffeine per mug, tea gives a gentle boost of alertness without the crash associated with coffee. In fact, the caffeine and amino acid L-theanine found in tea can improve brain function, enhancing mood, alertness and cognitive performance.
Studies also show that consuming black tea may contribute to slowing cognitive decline, and tea contains various compounds, such as polyphenols and catechins, which have anti-cancer properties. Peppermint and ginger tea soothe digestive issues, plus regular consumption of green and black tea has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving blood vessel function.
Alongside tea’s physical benefits, a good cup has mental perks too. A study from BRITA Professional, which surveyed 1000 tea drinkers, found that 64% believe breaking for tea has a positive effect on their mental health with 41% saying it helps lower their stress levels.
Pauses promote productivity
Although breaking for tea might appear counterproductive to productivity, regular office tea breaks can actually boost it in a sustainable way. These brief pauses offer employees a chance to recharge, leading to improved concentration and efficiency when they head back to work.
Plus, unlike coffee, which provides a ‘hit’ of caffeine to help power through work, the high levels of antioxidants in tea slow the absorption of caffeine, which results in a gentler caffeine increase and a longer period of alertness minus the crash.
A good cuppa brews connections
Taking the time to offer a colleague a cup of tea isn't just about sharing a beverage -it's an opportunity to nurture connections in the workplace.
Research from Gallup indicates that strong work friendships can boost employee satisfaction by up to 50%, fostering higher levels of engagement and dedication to work tasks.
By engaging in simple acts of kindness like making tea for a co-worker, you contribute to building a supportive and cohesive work environment where people feel valued and connected.
Plus, carved-out time for tea breaks gives office employees time away from the desk to build relationships and catch up on matters other than work.
A solid office tea break breaks up the day
In addition to its psychological benefits, office tea breaks are a practical way to break up the monotony of the workday. Stepping away from the desk to enjoy a cup of tea provides employees with a chance to recharge both physically and mentally.
A short afternoon tea break allows for stretching, relaxation and a moment to reset, leading to increased energy levels and improved overall wellbeing. Embracing these brief interludes throughout the day can lead to greater productivity, creativity and a more balanced approach to work.
Top tea breaks with Eurest
While our coffee services are a big hit with our clients, we also offer a competitive tea service that employees love across the UK. Why not get in touch with our friendly team to see how our tea offering could work for your workplace?
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