We all know how easy it is to become anxious, frustrated and stressed at work. We sometimes feel out of our control, and however hard we try to do a good job we can find that people, processes and problems get right in our way.
Stress can be a big deal, and here at The Yorkshire Therapy Company we understand this all too well. The company was developed as a result of Lauren pursuing her own strategies for coping with pressure and stress during her career in management, and many of our clients are looking for techniques and treatments to achieve a sense of calm, balance and wellbeing.
What simple calming and coping techniques does Lauren recommend to get you started?
1. Get some perspective
Don’t you just hate it when someone says this? However when we are coping with too much, even the small stuff can feel overwhelming – resulting in unhealthy reactions that results in additional stress. Keep a record or journal every day to note all of your achievements and successes, however small. This simple act helps keep your mind focused on the positives, keeping our problems in perspective and is a great reminder of how good we really are.
2. Wind down
How do you like to wind down? Write down things that you enjoy to do and that take you attention away from the things that cause your stress – and make a point to do them more. My own list includes baking and making soups, walking my dog Rufus and taking a long bubble bath. My husband’s list includes washing the car, clearing out the garage and tinkering with the bikes – oh yes, and eating all of the cakes and soup I make!!
3. Breathe…!
The simple act of breathing is underrated. Our ingenious body ensures that we breathe without having to even think about it, so our attention can focus elsewhere. Bringing our consciousness back to our breathing can have significant effects. Slowing down our breathing and filling our diaphragm as opposed to just our upper lungs full of air results in increased oxygen levels that improves our entire wellbeing. Observing our breathing is also a simple meditation technique that slows and calms our mind, and can be done almost everywhere.
4. Be active
When we are feeling under stress we often work longer and miss out on important breaks. We know how much exercise improves our health, and simply being a little more more active each day at work can help. Find your own ways to move around at work more regularly, maybe choose to take the stairs or take regular ‘walk’ breaks, ten minute strolls to focus on your breathing and breathe in some fresh air.
5. Make a change
Gaining some control by taking action will have a big impact. Consider your problem-focused strategy (where you find a solution), or your emotion-focused strategy (where you find support) and don’t be afraid to speak out and bring it to the attention of people who can help.
To talk to us about how our range of therapies and development can help you manage stress and help understand and control your reactions, get in touch today.