Don't become a working stiff! Try these tension-relieving tips before stress
gets the better of you!
Breathe in, breathe out
Fighting workday stress can be as simple as taking a deep breath-from your
diaphragm. Most people breathe from their chests when they're feeling out of
sorts. That means less oxygen reaches the bloodstream and brain, the heart rate
increases and tension runs amuck. If you breathe from your diaphragm muscle
instead, a more appropriate carbon dioxide-oxygen exchange will occur in your
blood, which leads to a feeling of relaxation.
One-a-day relief
Before you head to the office, head to the medicine chest and take a
stress-fighting vitamin or natural herb. B-complex vitamins help the body
handle stress by maintaining the nervous system. If you're a naturalist at
heart, try taking adaptogens-herbs that promote mental and physical balance.
Favorite adaptogens include various ginsengs, valerian, kava root, echinacea
and goldenseal. As always, it's best to check with your physician before adding
supplements to your diet.
Sweeten up your life
You may not have to fight your mid-afternoon sweet tooth after all. In
moderation, indulging your chocolate cravings can actually help temper your
stress. Research confirms that cacao liquor polyphenol (CLP)-a major ingredient
in chocolate-is a powerful antioxidant that enhances the activity of the immune
system. Thus, making it a natural choice during times of stress or depression.
Rub it in
When you're feeling overwhelmed, try rubbing an essential oil, such as
lavender, sage or patchouli into your temples. The appealing aroma evokes calm,
plus your temples are a pressure point, so the mini massage will ease your
tension. To find out which oils work for you, sample some scents at your
favorite beauty supply shop.
Designed to relax
Instead of staring at the blank walls of your cubicle, decorate your workspace
with family photos, mementos and artwork that inspires you. Next time you're
feeling bogged down from a seemingly insurmountable to-do list, gaze around at
pictures of loved ones and your favorite artists' creations and you may be
surprised at how much more at ease you feel.