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The modern workplace is increasingly intense for many people, with employers demanding that you work harder for longer hours, rising inflation causing a cost-of-living crisis in many countries, and economic instability sending shockwaves through the job market.
When you combine this with the realities of living with a smartphone and social media (which can destroy your ability to focus and remain in the present moment), you may feel increasingly stressed daily.
Unfortunately, the reality of work stress is that you may be unaware you are even suffering from it. Unless you have suddenly been plunged into an intense job, your stress levels will likely increase slowly, meaning it creeps up on you.
This is dangerous because your body will develop a tolerance to the stress that tricks you into thinking it is normal to feel like that, when in fact it is damaging your emotional, mental, and physical health one day at a time.
Therefore, if you are feeling stressed at work, here are some useful strategies for combating it in your free time:
Take a Weekend Trip to the Water
Nature is one of the most proven tonics for unhealthy stress. If you live in an urban environment or are shut indoors at work for hours on end during the week, you will quickly become disconnected from the natural world.
This can wreak havoc on your mind and body because humans are intrinsically wired to be immersed in nature.
Thankfully, you still have the weekend to pursue natural wonders, which can ground your mind and help reset your stress levels.
While there are countless ways to immerse yourself in nature (such as taking walks through woodland or hiking), we suggest that you head towards a body of water instead.
If you have ever gazed wonderfully at a beautiful lake or sea view, you will appreciate the power that water can have on the human soul.
If your budget allows, you may even want to invest in a boat, which you can easily transport to the water using a boat transport service, like Shiply. Soak up the relaxing views and feeling of calm you get when bobbing on the sea and forget about work for a few hours.
Make Yourself a Relaxing Evening Routine
One of the best ways to unwind from a stressful job is to set yourself a consistent evening routine that allows you to relax.
Getting back from work, only to continue checking work emails, finishing jobs, or scrolling on social media will only fuel your stress levels.
Instead, why not make it a routine to run yourself a warm bath, meditate, or treat yourself to a piece of chocolate or a glass of wine?
Keep Your Work and Private Lives Separate
Finally, you should do your best to keep your work at your workplace. When you are always connected to phones and laptops, it is tempting to answer emails or texts from your employer or colleagues late at night, pull all-nighters too often, or keep worrying about work problems back at home.
This is toxic and can damage your mental health. Instead, switch off your phone or silence work notifications when you get home. Make your house a place of peace and sanctuary, and your body will respond by relaxing.
Techniques for Relaxation
Practicing relaxation techniques can help to reduce stress levels and manage workplace stress outside of office hours. Relaxation techniques can include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and mindfulness meditation. Practicing these techniques regularly can help to reduce stress levels and improve physical and mental well-being. Additionally, relaxation techniques can provide an escape from workplace stress and help to clear the mind.
Building Resilience
Building resilience is a powerful tool for managing workplace stress outside office hours. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from difficult times and manage stress effectively. Developing resilience can help better equip individuals for handling stressors in and out of the workplace. This can include activities such as exercising, connecting with others, volunteering and engaging in positive self-talk. Additionally, it’s essential to take time to recognize and appreciate accomplishments and successes.
Conclusion
Workplace stress is a part of life, but with the right strategies, it is possible to effectively manage stress outside of office hours. Incorporating activities to unwind and recharge can help to relax the body and mind from the stresses of the day. Additionally, setting boundaries between work and personal life, practicing relaxation techniques, and building resilience can all help to effectively manage workplace stress. Ultimately, managing stress is not easy, but it’s important for your well-being. Taking the time to unwind and practice self-care can make all the difference.
