No matter how much you love your job, you're going to find yourself stressed out at some time. Job pressure is actually the number one cause of stress in our lives, simply because we don't have much control over what happens. Nonetheless, there are strategies on how to stay calm with work-related stress in the office.
Take Short Breaks
There's a reason why large companies have break rooms and perhaps relaxation centers. Working for 8+ hours straight is not healthy, especially if you have a lot to do or a lot on your mind. The work isn't going anywhere - but your mental health is. This is why it's crucial to take one 15-minute break during the day, or several 3-5 minute “microbreaks” throughout the day to recharge your brain and boost your energy. Research actually shows that breaks reduce stress, enhance workplace social interaction, and raise awareness around healthy activities, so take your break now!
Explore Nature, Laughter, & Moving
Going for a short walk or watching a funny video can save you from work-related stress tremendously, for they have powerful stress-reducing benefits. The fresh air or humor won't solve your work problem, but it definitely will put your brain in a better state of mind. Additionally, you should get up and move more altogether. Sitting for long periods of time is inflammatory and stressful within itself. That's why smartwatches are great because you can set a sedentary reminder to become aware of your lack of movement throughout the day. Sitting all day can increase your risk of anxiety, so even if you exercise regularly, be sure to stand up regularly at work and get your blood flowing.
Try Deep Breathing
This one seems simple and easy, but many forget that this is an option to stay calm with work-related stress. Whether it's because of back-to-back meetings, deadlines, or a horrible boss, a break may seem impossible. Nonetheless, you always have time to engage in a few minutes of deep breathing to simmer down those stress hormones. Just take a slow deep breath in through your nose, then breathe out through your mouth. In a minute or two, you should feel your brain and body start to relax, and hopefully can get you through the rest of your work day.
Nourish Your Friendships & Body
Research shows that boosting social interactions is critically important for your mental and physical health, so don't neglect this while in office. Everyone has at least one close friend at work that you can engage with. While you may be stressed and feel as if you don't have enough time to get everything done, go console in a colleague. Something as simple as grabbing coffee or poking your head into their work space has important stress-reducing benefits. Besides nourishing your friendships though, be sure to keep your body nourished as well. Keeping your blood sugar stable throughout the day will go a long way toward keeping your work-related stress in check. Just be sure you are eating in a way that actually nourishes your brain and body. Take full advantage of your lunch break by eating good nutrients, slowing down, being mindful, and NOT eating at your desk, for that can trigger stress hormones. You may even want to consider eating anti-inflammatory diets at work, which are shown to reduce stress and lower your risk for depression.
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-Gina
