Easy Ways to Reduce Stress at Work

Stress at work can have an unhealthy affect on our bodies from our brains to our digestive systems. Try these five easy tips to relax and get it under control.

Take Mini Breaks

Reduce stress by moving. If you've been sitting for more than two hours, it's a good idea to get up and move around. Go to the restroom or go outside, just move away from your desk and your work. If you are able to get a break outside, fresh air will relax and reduce the stress.

Squeeze Something

There is a reason those stress balls are so popular. Squeezing relieves muscle tension and has a calming effect and can even relieve stress while you continue to work. Stress balls have been proven to be so effective in relieving stress that companies have provided them to their employees for years.

Eat Outside of the Office

If you eat at your desk there's a good chance you will still end up working in some way. Leave the office for lunch and get away from your work for a while. You will feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever is on your desk when you return.

Yoga/Sitting Exercises

Sit with back straight and shoulders back. Tilt head to one side and with your hand gently press on the top of your head for about 5 seconds. Don't pull your head down. Then tilt your head to the other side and gently press with your hand.

Also try sitting straight in your chair. Raise your arms up and interlock fingers. Make sure you inhale and exhale deeply while stretching.

Breathing Exercises

We don't realize it, but most of the time when we are under a lot of stress we take shorter breaths. To relieve stress, breathe in through your nose until you feel that your lungs are full and then let all of the air out through your mouth. Take a break and turn the lights down while listening to slow, quiet music. Close your eyes and take long deep breaths. Try to visualize your muscles relaxing.

If you find yourself getting colds and flu more often or feeling tired and anxious frequently it is probably the effects of stress taking its toll. Take a break and think about your health and you may just find a way to relax.