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Hi everybody, my name is Nicholas Marcum, a new member of the physical therapy team here at EZIA Human Performance. I’m here to talk to you about easy solutions to reduce stress while you are at work. First of all, I worked in the corporate world in sales and marketing for several years prior to my new internship. I’m sure a lot of you may relate to this environment I was in. During this time, I gained weight, felt lethargic in the afternoons and tended to constantly feel overwhelmed. Even though I was athletic, I didn’t know the simple solutions to reducing stress in a corporate environment. I will share these simple tips for you to incorporate in your daily routine. Oh, by the way, for those of you not in the corporate world, these tips can be applied to any environment.
Tip #1: Exercise
Stretching will boost alertness and energy in the workplace. Here are a few stretching techniques that will help you distress on the job.
o Loosen the hands with air circles
o Shrug your shoulders to loosen neck and shoulders
o Stretch your back by hugging yourself
o Release the upper body with a torso twist
It’s common knowledge, people that sit at their desk all day are prone to serious medical problems. The easiest way to avoid being glued to your chair is to just stand up and sit down without using your hands. Try this several times or until the blood starts moving and you feel alert. If you find yourself with more time, go for a walk.
Tip #2: Create a relaxing environment
A relaxing environment can be achieved through deep breathing which helps to relax and calm the mind. Our mind is in overdrive throughout the day. Deep breathing can be practiced anytime, anywhere. Sit with an upright back and keep your eyes closed. Take a deep breath and let go. Repeat this several times.
Take it a step further with meditation. By bringing meditation into the workplace, you decrease stress and clear the mind. Your focus and concentration will increase therefore you develop intelligent ways of dealing with issues and solving problems. How do go about mediating at work? First, silence your phone, sit comfortably in your chair, push away from your desk and place both feet on the ground. Take deep breaths and clear your mind of any thoughts. Or, if it’s easier, silently repeat a phrase such as “I am relaxed and I am happy”. Repeat this as many times as you desire…breathing naturally.
All of these tips will help defuse stress and renew your outlook. They calm the body, lower anxiety, and assists with regaining energy and perspective. Find out what works best for you and try to integrate into your daily life.
I hope to hear what techniques worked for you and don’t forget to share this post!
Nicholas
Sources:
1. Seliger, Susan. “Stretching Exercises at Your Desk.”
WebMD Feature. 27 May 2009. Web. 13 Sept. 2012.
2. Shapiro, Ed and Deb. “Making Successful Business Changes the Quiet Way.” Tathaastu. 2009.
