You sit at your desk looking at a long list of unanswered emails, a pile of projects that need to be finished, and at least 20 voice mail messages you need to respond to. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. These days companies are trying to get more work done with less employees, and work stress is the undesirable result. Stress effects your mind and body, making the most simple tasks seem unbearable. Over time, stress can lead to health issues, so it is important to use relaxation techniques and exercise to get it under control.
Meditation
Meditation promotes good health of the mind, body, and soul. Buddhists have used this relaxation technique as part of their culture for centuries, and it is an excellent way to become one with yourself. For the best results, meditation should be done in a quite place in which you can sit down and focus on positive energy. Mediation is about being aware of what you are trying to achieve and this will remove the stress from your mind. To lift your spirits and heal your soul, try a White Light Meditation. This form of meditation focuses on controlled breathing and personal well-being.
Exercise in Nature
When you feel the effects of stress within your body, avoid going to an overcrowded gym or taking a brisk walk along a busy street. Escape into nature and focus on yourself for the day. Take a long mountain hike or walk alongside a flowing river. Not only will you get the exercise you need, but you will avoid all of the hustle and bustle of everyday life and will not have to breathe in smog or pollutants. When you are out in nature, their are no external demands for your attention or time. You can focus on the moment and tuck your work stress away for a while.
Hobbies and Crafts
Engaging in hobbies and crafts will take your mind off of work and relax you. When you focus on fun things like art, crafts, and hobbies, you utilize the creative right side of your brain. This turns off the analytical left side of the brain, which is most often used when you are problem solving or engaging in work-related activities. Most people feel a proud sense of accomplishment when they create something new, and this is a great way to uplift your spirits. Take a break from thinking about the things you have to do in life, and focus on something that brings you joy.
Talk it Out
People are social beings and sometimes you can relieve stress by simply talking to someone who cares. Pent up frustration and stress is not good for the body, and many people feel much better once they have talked to someone about what is bothering them. Take a friend or member of your family out to lunch and discuss what is bothering you. People on the outside can often times come up with solutions to problems you would have never thought of yourself. Talk openly with others about your stress and don’t try to minimize how you are feeling.
Find Something to Laugh About
They say that laughter is the best medicine, and sometimes you just need to find a way to laugh your stress away! Take a day off and watch a funny movie, go to a comedy show, or even have a lighthearted conversation with a good friend. Laughter happens when you are emotionally stimulated in a good way, and you will feel terrific once you get some laughter in your life. Laughter will remove the tight feeling in your stomach, the headaches, and the overall feeling of being overwhelmed.
If left untreated, work stress can have a severe impact on your overall health and well-being. Stress is not a good feeling and you should work hard to get as much of it out of your life as possible. With all of the demands that work can throw at you, it is important to step back away from it all so you can enjoy the little things in life. Take time to meditate, talk to a friend, laugh, and get exercise as these things will make you feel better and bring you some needed relief.
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