Solutions for Stress: The Working Woman!
By Nisha Jackson PhD, MS, WHCNP, HHP
Are you a working woman feeling the weight of life upon your shoulders? Working women especially need to pay very close attention to their stress level and need to work harder at guarding their bodies and minds against overload.
Eat a balanced breakfast every single day.
Include protein. For convenience, try a high-protein bar or breakfast shake. This will help with daily concentration in the workplace and can prevent afternoon fatigue.
Exercise daily or at least four times per week.
Try to break a sweat each time, but take care not to overexert. Even a lunchtime walk with a co-worker can be a good midday energy boost.
Plan a recreational activity once a week.
Recreation relieves stress and is a great way to get your body moving and take your mind off workplace or home issues that may be troublesome.
Set aside a personal time.
Take at least 10 minutes every day. Whether it’s soaking in a hot bath or puttering in your yard in the evening, a little time for yourself will always give you a mental boost.
Learn to say no.
Say no whenever saying yes would stretch you too far. Then let it go.
Reserve one day a week for rest, relaxation, and worship.
This is very important. Make time for whatever nurtures your soul.
Stop listening to negative talk.
Your emotions don’t need the stress. Ignore gossip and pettiness that makes you feel frustrated or angry.
Nurture your friendships.
Have lunch with a friend once a week and do not talk about work.
Make your workplace positive.
Try to keep your work environment uncluttered and peaceful.
Leave your work at the office.
Use the drive home to “change gears” between work mode and personal life.
Practice breathing exercises.
Five times during the day, close your eyes, sit up straight, and breathe in and out through your nose to the count of ten. The calming effect is instant.
Even if you only choose 4 from the list, and put them to work in your life, you will find relief from stress!
Best of Health, Nish!
(Next post: Using supplements to help manage stress.)