ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors review the factors that contribute to effective recovery from work, and practical steps employers and employees can take to maximise the effectiveness of rest periods experienced by employees. Employees offered work-related learning and opportunities for personal development are more likely to report higher levels of recovery and relaxation. Psychological detachment from work is a critical aspect of the recovery process and means more than simply not being at work. The first step in helping employees to use their rest time effectively for recovery is to provide education about the importance of effective recovery. The impact of work characteristics on recovery requires some special attention because this is where managers can really take matters into their own hands. The combination of enjoyable work and enjoyable non-work activities is positively associated with high quality recovery. In relation to activities, employees who completed activities they preferred earlier in their work shift experience higher levels of recovery.
