4 ways to de-stress at your desk
Published 2:45 pm Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Your heart starts to beat a little faster, your blood pressure rises quickly, and you’re more tired than normal.
These are some telltale signs you may be more stressed than you realize.
Breathe in, breathe out. Today is National Stress Awareness Day, and for many Americans, work can often be stressful.
Numerous studies show that job stress is one of the major sources for stress in American adults. Over the last decade, it’s progressively gotten worse. Increased levels of work-related stress can contribute to heart attacks, high blood pressure, and other health disorders, according to The American Institute of Stress.
To de-stress at your desk right now and optimize productivity, here are some tips to help:
Go for a walk
Going for a short walk on your lunch break can help you clear your mind and boost endorphins, that will reduce stress hormones. If possible, find a nearby park or somewhere with lots of plants and green scenery to help put your body and mind at ease.
Buy a plant for your desk
Not only are houseplants beautiful air purifiers, they can also aid in decreasing your heart rate and induce a state of feeling relaxed. A study from the University of Michigan found that taking a walk in the park makes your brain feel less fuzzy and makes you happier.
Find a stress relief music station
The health benefits of music are endless, but if stressed at work try listening to classical music or a stress relief music station. Studies show the heart rate decreases when listening to music with fewer beats per minute.
Step away from the screen
Take a moment to step or look away from your computer screen. Take a walk to the break room and grab a glass of water. Take a quick walk to the bathroom and breathe in and out. Even taking a moment to stare outside the window can help you to refocus and remain calm.
These simple tips can make a world of a difference, and make your work-life balance less stressful.
Here’s how some people on Twitter are dealing with stress.
#NationalStressAwarenessDay Let music be your stress medicine. pic.twitter.com/1ZHPKkXsKR
— The Capitol Theatre (@capitoltheatre) November 4, 2015
A little reminder on #NationalStressAwarenessDay that everyone gets stressed and it’s okay to go take a break and do something chill ✌🏻
— Evan Edinger (@EvanEdinger) November 4, 2015
Some stress relief tips for #NationalStressAwarenessDay 🌸 pic.twitter.com/jUHIQGRCqz
— Grace Auten (@graceaauten) November 4, 2015