Over a period of time, the stress from work can contribute to a range of stress-related diseases and illnesses including high blood pressure and stomach ulcers. Pressure, tension and anxiety have become common elements of any work day, but they don’t have to be! There are a range of tips you can try for stress relief at work. However, achieving balance and relaxation in your life outside work can help you be more productive at the office and give you the tools needed to manage stress effectively.
Tips for stress relief at the office
Eating habits
Don’t skip meals. Eating regular meals throughout the day will offer sustained energy release and will help you better manage stress. Eating breakfast, for instance, improves alertness and concentration, increasing productivity and reducing the likelihood of having to work overtime.
Aim for healthier eating options as well. During your day, resist the urge for a quick-fix coffee energy booster. If you must have a coffee, limit your intake, otherwise try other options such as herbal teas.
Take your lunch break
Use your lunch break as a chance to get out of the office. Never underestimate the impact a walk can do for stress relief. Getting some fresh air is a great way to clear your head. Even going out of the office for half of your lunch break will help increase your motivation when you get back in.
Make sure you don’t skip lunch either. Eating a healthy lunch will help you resist the urge to eat sugary sweets or snacks to get your energy levels up. Choose to eat lunch away from your desk and computer. A lunch break is great for stress relief and when you return back to the office you will find you are re-energised and refreshed.
Time out
Sitting hunched in front of a computer screen all day is not surprisingly unhealthy. When pressure builds up, take a few deep breaths, look out the window or walk around the office. After staring at a computer screen all day, this will help clear your head and will also offer stress relief. To relieve stress or tension, performing some simple stretching exercises will also help you loosen up.
Tips for long-term stress relief
Taking the chance to relax and rejuvenate at home allows you to return to work refreshed and balanced. This can help lessen incidents of stress and allow you to better manage stress when it arises in the workplace.
Sleep
A solid six to eight hours are needed each night to help your body repair and rejuvenate. Getting enough sleep can be a beneficial means of stress relief and can in turn make you feel refreshed and motivated for your next day at work.
Exercise
Regular exercise is a great means of stress relief. The pressures of work make it hard for many people to find the time to exercise. However, putting aside 20 minutes a few times a week not only will produce health benefits but also offer stress relief, ease tension and clear your head.
