Stress. It’s that five-letter word that is more powerful than most of us realize. It can impact our lives in the blink of an eye, completely catching us off guard and manifesting its way into our lives in so many ways. Today, our world has becoming an increasingly demanding place – one that expects more than ever, often with little time left for those crucial moments of relaxation and leisure. If you’re feeling weighed down from job-related stress, here are a few essential steps for you to take in order to combat it.
Make Time for Yourself, No Matter What
Just as if you were scheduling an appointment or important meeting, at least every week, set an evening aside where you can relax and regroup. This appointment takes priority over everything else and cannot be moved or cancelled. Making time for yourself is as important for your overall health as anything – so don’t take this lightly. Go on a date, meet up with friends, have a laugh, or pair a glass of wine with a good book. Whatever you choose, find a way to take your mind off of work for at least the evening.
Take Your Lunch Break
If you’re one of those people who tend to skip lunch or eat at your desk instead of taking an actual break – stop it! It’s important to break up the day. Even if you have a “to-do” list that is a mile high, taking a half hour to step away from the office and eat your lunch somewhere else – like on a bench in the sunshine – can work absolute wonders for boosting your mood, energy and clarity. Take in some vitamin D and allow your body and mind a reprieve. You’ll be amazed at just how much more productive you can be when you get back to the office.
Exercise
We’ve all heard it countless times before, but exercise truly is one of the best ways for combating stress. It may not always be practical to find the time or the energy to exercise, but it doesn’t have to involve running on a treadmill or lifting weights at the gym. Try joining an early morning yoga class before work, or even a few times in the evening so you can feel relaxed before bed. Alternatively, if that’s not your thing, look for a nearby swimming pool you can use to go for evening swims. These are great ways to incorporate exercise while mellowing out your mind and body.
In order for you to combat stress, your personal time needs to become a priority. If you’re finding that life is becoming a tad overwhelming, it’s time to do something about it. Carve out time for yourself to take your mind and body off of your work by having a weekly night out with friends, utilizing your lunch breaks and finding a way to incorporate some exercise into your days. Your body and mind will thank you.
