Five Ways of Dealing With Work Stress

Work stress is rising and costing American companies a lot of money. It is estimated that 80% of healthcare costs are stress-related. People deal with stress in different ways. You might need to do more than just one thing in dealing with work stress effectively, here are some of them:

Meditate before leaving for work

When you’re having a big day like a presentation or starting a new project, improve your focus by meditating for five minutes before going out. Find a quiet space, sit in a comfortable position, and close your eyes. You can try guided meditation using instructional CDs or simply guide yourself in silence. Be aware of your breathing and condition your mind with positive affirmation.

Learn to relax at your desk

Sitting in a comfortable position and taking deep breaths is an effective way to deal with stress. Find something relaxing to focus your eyes on like a screensaver, video, or a scene outside your window. Take a deep breath and hold it for 5 to 10 seconds then release; repeat three or four times. This heightens awareness and helps you deal with any problem that’s causing you anxiety.

Write a journal

Writing in a journal is an effective way to channel your stress. Resist the temptation of staying at your desk during your lunch break. Go to a peaceful place like a park bench or library. Even ten minutes of writing in your journal can help vent your frustrations and get rid of negative thoughts.

Entertain yourself on the ride home

Unresolved frustrations during the day may lead to road rage during the ride home. Lighten up your mood by listening to relaxing music or a comedy set in your car or your headphones on the bus. You’ll find that this step makes time fly and shields you from annoying external factors.

Relax in bed

No matter how tired you get at the end of the day, your mind can keep you up even when you’re lying in bed. Lack of sleep is a major cause of stress. Try some progressive relaxation techniques while you’re thinking about tomorrow’s tasks. Alternately flex and release tension to relax your muscles. Start from your head and experience a big difference after reaching your toes.

Addressing work stress through meditation, relaxation techniques, journaling, and entertainment can significantly improve your well-being. Additionally, having a comprehensive health insurance plan provides a safety net for unexpected health issues and ensures access to physicians and specialists who can help prevent medical problems before they arise.