Work related stress is, unfortunately, unavoidable. However, there are measures you can take to lessen its impact. With physical activity, keep stress in check so the workplace is a more pleasant place to be.
Increase Blood Flow, Boost Endorphins
Whatever physical activity you choose, you’re making a healthy choice. Just getting up and moving for a few minutes helps get your blood pumping. Activity also boosts production of endorphins, which helps boost mood. Suddenly, with all that oxygenated blood and good feeling hormones flowing through your veins, your mind and body experience a positive shift. Any stress still hanging on should be minimal and manageable.
Skip The Drama
Instead of hanging out in the break room with everyone else, head outside if you can for a brisk walk, jog, or even just to stretch. If you can’t get outside, get creative and find a way to move around inside. If you have a private working area, take advantage of it! If not, see if there are places in the building to walk. Bring a pair of headphones, too…they’ll send the message that you’re not up for talking!
The bonus here is that while everyone else is probably standing around gossiping on some level, you won’t hear a word of it. Work gossip is so challenging to avoid, too; even just hearing a little bit of it or joining in on one conversation can turn into a stressful situation. Even worse, it often ends up following you home.
Ideas For Physical Activity At Work
Before, during, or after work, find a time that works best for you. Then, execute your plan to get active and keep work stress at bay. Here are a few ideas:
- Walk or bike to work if you live close enough.
- During breaks, head outside to walk, jog, bike, or stretch. If weather or location does not permit going outside, find a space at work or other nearby location to walk.
- On your lunch break (if time permits), head to the gym for a mini-workout session.
- If you’re not on break but the stress is building, keep some weighted items handy to lift or stand for a couple of minutes and stretch your body out. Running in place, lunges, sit-ups, and push-ups work great, too, as long as you have the space.
- After work, hit the gym for a more intense workout (if you’re up to it!) or wind down with a yoga class.
For more information about work stress and how to handle it, contact us.