If you're partial to the odd tea break, you'll be delighted to know that taking time out to make and drink a cup of scald is actually beneficial to productivity levels. Not only is this five minute task proven to boost your mood, you might find it easier to think of new ideas and creative concepts. This study was conducted by Unilever, the company that makes Lipton tea, but it has been accepted by a scientific journal after an independent review. The research took place in Holland and 150 people, who described themselves as regular tea-drinkers, took part. They were split into three groups: one group made tea, one group snacked on sweets and the third group drank some water. The groups were then tested using word games, anagrams and drawings to see if their mood and levels of creativity and motivation had changed. Any excuse for a cuppa... Results showed that those who drank tea were more eager to succeed in the tests and had a faster response time than those who drank water. However, those who ate sweets were just as productive as those who drank tea...*reaches for the chocolate* The fact that tea contains theanine, an amino acid believed to boost relaxation, may contribute to the positive results. Suzanne Einother, one of the scientists leading the research said: "These findings appear to confirm what many of us suspect; that the close to sacred ritual of the tea break can effectively boost your mood, which in turn can lead to other benefits such as improved problem solving. "We suspect this effect is down to a combination of elements including aspects of tea preparation and the taste and aroma during consumption as well as simply taking a break from other activities". Any reason to put the kettle on is just fine with us... H/T Mail Online