Most people with jobs have likely found themselves working to the point of excessive stress and physical and mental deterioration. It was back in 2019 that the World Health Organization recognized office burnout as an occupational phenomenon. Even so, little has been done to address the issue as many people continue to struggle to find a work-life balance as they perpetuate what’s known as toxic productivity.

What Is Toxic Productivity

Because of modern technology, individuals have become always reachable. It’s easy to hop online from nearly anywhere to take a Zoom meeting or respond to a few emails. Although it seems harmless to take a business call even after your shift or invest an additional few hours a week to boost results, the compulsion to remain productive and expectations to always be available have visible consequences on people.

Recognizing the Signs

When we cross the threshold into toxic productivity, it quickly leaves us emotionally, mentally, and physically drained. Not only can that cause the quality of a person’s work to plummet, but it also leaves one feeling terrible. This phenomenon is fueled by the compulsive need to be always available and constantly productive, and the unspoken competition of who can accomplish more and prove more valuable.

Potential Negative Side Effects

Among the main negative side effects of toxic productivity is burnout. This quickly leads to fatigue and can lead to anxiety, stress, and depression. Soon enough, work begins encroaching into our free time and we find ourselves getting tired more easily, suffering a negative mindset, and complaining about different aches and pains.

Breaking the Cycle

For healthy productivity to occur, one has to rest and devote time to self-care. Always utilize your breaks during work hours and make sure you stretch, look away from the screen, hydrate, eat, and get some fresh air. Use available days off whenever you feel burnout seeping in. Set boundaries that keep work out of your free time. Consider speaking to a mental health professional when you start to feel overwhelmed.

Matcha tea is a Japanese green tea traditionally drank unsweetened and hot. However, many modern innovations from cold brew to delicious matcha lattes lead to the popularization of this beverage in many parts of the world. This green tea variant is available in different price ranges, grades, and flavors. In addition to being delicious, it’s also one of the healthiest beverages in the world.

The Main Benefits of Drinking Matcha

Matcha is a great source of good caffeine, making it a valid energy booster. It’s very rich in antioxidants that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Because of the high levels of an amino acid called L-theanine, this beverage has a soothing effect without also making a person sleepy. It’s an excellent way to remain alert without the risk of having jitters or experiencing a crash like with coffee or sugary beverages. While most teas are made by steeping tea leaves in hot water, this tea specifically is made by grinding up the green tea leaves so people can enjoy all the benefits the plant offers.

The Popularization of This Tea

Popular chains and small private coffee shops took advantage of the rising popularity of matcha tea. It can be found as a cold brew, lattes, teas, and is sometimes used in baking to create innovative desserts. Paru Tea Bar in San Diego is one of the modern coffee shops that offer a wonderful selection of products and drinks inspired by the diverse cultural background and love of tea shared by the owners Amy Truong and Lani Gobaleza.

Making a Quality Matcha Beverage

The trick to making an excellent beverage at home, is it’s important to buy ceremonial-grade tea instead of culinary-grade whenever possible. The ceremonial variety is made of younger leaves and offers subtler flavors. Sift the powder to remove clumps. Lastly, use hot but not boiling water. Many shops will be happy to offer a demonstration, which can be more helpful than online tutorials.