Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed at work? If so, you’re not alone. According to a study by the American Institute of Stress, workplace stress has been on the rise for the past two decades. Not only is this bad for your mental health, but it can also lead to physical health problems. This blog post will discuss six great ways to better manage stress and anxiety as a professional!
1) Take some time to get active
Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mental health. Even if you can’t make it to the gym every day, try to take a brisk walk during your lunch break or after work.
“Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety,” says Dr. Michael Gervais, a sports psychologist who has worked with the Seattle Seahawks and other professional athletes. “It helps by providing structure and relief from worry.”
If you don’t have time for a formal workout, there are other ways to get active. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator, park further away from your destination, or go for a walk on your lunch break.
2) Make time for yourself
It’s important to take some time each day to do something you enjoy. This can be anything from reading a book, taking a yoga class, or going for a run. Doing things that you enjoy helps reduce stress by giving you a break from work and the daily grind.
If you don’t have time for a hobby, try to do something relaxing before bed, such as reading or taking a bath. You can also listen to calming music or nature sounds to help you relax. Of course, what works for one person may not work for another, so finding what works best for you is important.
3) Find professional help
If you’re struggling to cope with stress and anxiety, it’s vital to seek professional help. Some many qualified therapists and The Awareness Centre can help you learn how to manage your stress. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
“Stress is a common experience that can lead to serious health problems if not effectively managed,” says Dr Gervais. “Seeking professional help is an important step in managing stress.”
4) Set boundaries
It’s important to set boundaries between work and home. When you’re at work, try to focus on work tasks and leave personal matters at home. This can be difficult if you work from home, but setting aside time for each task is important.
If you find yourself thinking about work when you’re at home, try to do something to relax, such as reading or taking a bath. It’s also important to take breaks during the day, so you don’t get overwhelmed. If possible, try to avoid working late nights and weekends. Also, try to take vacation days and use your sick days when you need them.
5) Simplify your life
One of the best ways to reduce stress is to simplify your life. This can mean decluttering your home, setting aside time each week for meal planning, or creating a budget. By simplifying your life, you can reduce the amount of daily decision-making and free up more time for relaxation.
For example, if you’re always running late because you can’t find things in your house, try decluttering and organising your space. If you’re constantly worrying about money, try creating a budget or setting up a savings plan. Additionally, try meal planning or batch cooking if you’re always eating out because you don’t have time to cook. Simplifying your life doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with one area of your life and make small changes. Over time, you’ll see a big difference in your stress levels!
6) Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment and accepting things. This can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that not everything in life is within our control.
One way to practice mindfulness is to focus on your breath. Whenever you find your mind wandering, bring your attention back to your breath. Another way to be mindful is to pay attention to your senses. Notice the sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures around you. By practising mindfulness, you can learn to accept things and let go of stress and anxiety. Mindfulness has been shown to have many health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving sleep, and increasing happiness.
Stress and anxiety are common experiences that can have a negative impact on our health. However, there are many things we can do to manage stress and anxiety. By following these tips, you can learn to better cope with stress and reduce its impact on your life.