We’re approaching the pointy end of the year… Christmas! This means everybody wants EVERYTHING done by the 25th December.. meaning bigger hours, greater workload, more social commitments and added stress to your day!
With all this pressure, you start to feel it.. your heart rate is racing, you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re tired, your decisions are cloudy and you generally have a lot on your plate!
According to Elite Daily and Inc. (2019), here’s some tips to stress less in 30 seconds:
1. Slow your breathing:
You can do this anywhere, anytime – inhale deep into your belly for a count of four, hold for a count of eight and exhale for a count of four.
2. Make a gratitude list:
When stress runs high, it’s a good idea to get yourself out of your head. Channel your negative feelings into something positive by writing a gratitude list.. it may be as simple as your morning coffee, your pink socks you have on or a visit from your niece last week. This is a distraction technique.
3. Give yourself a moment of self-massage:
Bring your shoulders up to your ears, then drop them down. Give each shoulder a few good kneads and squeezes with the opposite hand.
4. Notice Five Things:
You can do this at your desk, or on your quick 30 minute break walk to the park. Open up your senses and notice five interesting things that you can see, hear, feel or smell.
5. Make yourself a tea:
A soothing way to relax whilst in the office.
6. Name your feelings:
Acknowledge any feelings of frustration, anger afraid, etc.. this is proven to make you feel more calm.