If you stare at a computer screen all day like I do, it can be easy to start seeing the world as lines of text, rows of spreadsheets and blinking cursors. So, it’s important to take the odd break and find a little creative something to do.

Starting out

Studies have shown that taking periodic breaks to look at cool, artistic websites (like Zatista) improves performance in the workplace. O.K. So that’s a complete fabrication, but it will, at least, make you happy.

Adding some more.

With winter fast approaching (yep, it’s true), try this one on for size. The “Let’s Get Flurrious” snowflake designer might just be the thing you need to help you wrap your head around all the stuff you have to get done and the coming winter months. This nifty website lets you explore nature’s miraculous little fractals on your own.

Starting to feel better.

See, your high school math teacher was right – geometry is cool!

Not quite fractalicious, but still pretty "cool"--(Ahem!)

Once you’re done, you can save your flake and “make it snow.” Your creation joins thousands of others created by people just like you. The site even pipes in the sound of wind blowing – where’s that hot chocolate?!

Mouse over the flakes to meet your fellow flake creators.

Ahh, winter. It’s not going to be so bad after all. And neither will the rest of the afternoon, especially if you browse Zatista!

Via Now That’s Nifty.