5 Ways to Forget You're at the Office

Being stuck in an office (especially in the summer—hello, sun!) is downright torture on some days. Whether you're typing away in a windowless cave (been there), working long hours, or dealing with crazy co-workers—it's important absolutely necessary to take some time for yourself during the day. Here, some small things anyone can do for a couple minutes a day that will make a huge impact.

You don't have to leave your chair to get some peace of mind. Head to calm.com for a mini-mediation session that will give you a minute (or 10) to yourself. Set the timer for two minutes or up to 20 minutes, and select your nature scene–then, take a guided tour (or just listen to the nature sounds) to give yourself a mental redo.

Nothing can give you a break from your day like a nice cup of coffee. Calendar packed with meetings? Make an iced latte from your desk—we like Folgers Iced Cafe™ Coffee Drink Concentrates.

New apps (like LetsLunch.com) gets you out of the office to meet others in your industry (or in an industry you want to check out) for a great lunch and mini-networking opp. (Hey, sometimes you need to talk to someone else besides your Gchat buddies and Barb in accounting.)

Trade your lunch once a week to get out of your office and lend a helping hand. You can donate your time and skills online or commit to a weekly engagement (think: reading at a nearby school or helping with assisted living residents).

Scientists say smelling flowers can make you a friendlier person, so do your cubicle mates a favor and add some blooms to your desk. (Unless, you know, they're allergic. Then please don't.)