Work matters

Easy ways to de-stress

Tense? Frazzled? Wrung out? Being stressed at work affects us all, but there are ways to get through your day – without giving in to the urge to strangle your boss

“Stress is when you wake up screaming and realise you haven’t fallen asleep yet.”

If this unattributed quote sounds scarily familiar, it’d fair to say things are getting you down. And it’s no wonder: modern-day life is maddening, wearing and downright tedious – and that’s before you’ve got to the office!

While certain levels of stress can be positive and challenge you to act in creative and resourceful ways, routinely high levels can be harmful, contributing to chronic disease.

Women are particularly affected by stress, as the nature of the numerous roles they take on – mother, partner, career woman, domestic goddess – often make it difficult for them to relinquish responsibility and ‘let go’.

There are ways to effectively manage stress – all of which can be fitted into your office life and none of which require parting with your hard-earned cash.

Build up a sweat

Nothing combats stress better than a sweaty workout, so whether it’s a brisk walk at lunchtime or running around your local park, just moving your body for 30 minutes will get those feel-good endorphins floating around in your head. And we could all do with those!

Listen to relaxing music

Listening to gentle, soothing music will help you to calm down so that you have a more rational approach to dealing with the stresses of your day. It can’t hurt.

Get organised

It’s very hard to get things done when your desk/bag/wardrobe is besieged with clutter – so set time aside to clear whatever needs attention. Removing this physical clutter will also help eradicate mental clutter, freeing up valuable head space so that life’s obstacles don’t feel so unmanageable.

Learn to say no

Do you always say yes when people ask for your help? Take a deep breath and say ‘no’ – you’ll be amazed by how liberating it can be!

Be positive

Annoying though it might be, there’s a reason why positive people tend to be happier and more stress-free. Write a list of the things you’re grateful for and remind yourself regularly – it will add helpful perspective when things are getting too much.

Eat smart

Good nutrition is doubly important when your body is under stress, and this means starting the day with breakfast. And no, that latte you grabbed on your way in does not count. Skipping breakfast makes it harder to maintain stable blood-sugar levels, and means you’re much more likely to run out of energy and grab a sugary snack instead.

Of course, while these pointers can be helpful, if your sleep, work, relationships and appetite are being affected by stress, it’s time to talk to a professional – your GP will be able to point you in the right direction.

The Health and Safety Executive, too, has more information on work-related stress, and can help you – and your organisation – to tackle this common problem. Log on to their webiste for more information.

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