05 Feb 5 Ways to De-Stress at your Desk
Are tight deadlines and high stakes at work leaving you frazzled? You’re not alone! According to the Mental Health Foundation, in 2018, 74% of the UK have at some point felt so stressed they were overwhelmed or unable to cope. As much as we would all love a last-minute spa break or tropical holiday, that isn’t always an option. But don’t worry, LUYA is here to help with five simple ways you can de-stress without ever leaving your desk (or breaking the bank…)
- Take a deep breath
Deep breathing is connected to controlling your heart rate and regulating your blood pressure, both of which are essential to reducing stress and anxiety. Try the 4-7-8 technique…
- Empty the lungs of air
- Breath in quietly through the nose for 4 seconds
- Hold the breath for 7 seconds
- Exhale forcefully though the mouth, pursing the lips and making a ‘whoosh’ sound for 8 seconds
- Repeat the cycle up to 4 times
- Sit up straight
Posture is something we all struggle with when sat at our desk all day, right? Sitting up straight helps increase the amount of oxygen sent to your brain and the more oxygen our brain receives, the less stressed we feel. Improving your posture also boosts your energy and makes you feel happier, so it’s a win-win in our books.
- Give your eyes a break
Staring at a screen all day can increase feelings of tension and eyestrain adding to that stressed feeling. So, swivel away from your desk, close your eyes or even look out the window – we promise it will help.
- De-clutter your desk
You know what they say; tidy desk, tidy mind. Clearing your workspace not only makes a huge difference to your stress levels but it can also boost your productivity. File those loose papers away, clean out your drawers and recycle those magazines that have been sat on your desk for a year – who knows what you mind find when you de-clutter?
And Finally,
- Move around
So, for this one you will have to leave your desk but taking a short work, even if it’s just around the office, reduces stress and helps you feel more awake. If you can spare 10 minutes, then take a detour outside for some fresh air. By doing this, your brain will release endorphins that subdue anxiety, increase energy levels and improve your mood. It’s a no-brainer really!
So, what are you waiting for? Start with these top tips today and we promise you will notice the difference.