Workdays are extremely hectic and, if you are not careful, can lead to burnout. While it may seem beneficial or productive, or perhaps you are trying to prove something, it is very detrimental to your health if you run yourself ragged. What tends to happen is you spend your day running around without adequate breaks, and then you spend your free time recovering from that rather than living your life.
To help you break out of this vicious cycle, here are some top tips to get you through a hectic workday and incorporate more relaxing.
#1 Pause and breathe
A busy workday can often feel like a marathon. It is so hectic, and the finish line is nowhere in sight. Between looming deadlines, back-to-back meetings, and constantly having to answer questions for people, it is easy to overlook your well-being. Relaxation isn’t a luxury, and it may even feel like relaxation is just not possible. However, it is a necessity and should be viewed that way. If you don’t have time for something big, then start with a few mindful pauses and deep breaths throughout the day to help your nervous system.
#2 Take small, intentional breaks
One of the best ways to conduct your working day and incorporate some relaxation is to build in smaller, intentional breaks, also known as micro breaks. These are short breaks, for example, a 2-minute walk, some light stretching at your desk or simply closing your eyes and breathing deeply. This can work wonders, and is something you should schedule like a meeting, so you treat them seriously.
#3 Create a calming workspace
A calming workspace can really bring down the stress a notch during your busy working day and even help it become less hectic. A cluttered workspace can trigger anxiety, and the disorganisation can increase your workload. Consider having a clear-out and organising your space. You can take it a step further and add some nature, soft lighting and calming accessories.
#4 Find a soothing ritual
A soothing ritual can help you when things get heightened. For some, this might be stepping outside to listen to the birds singing. For others, this could be taking a vape break. Investing in something like a prefilled vape kit and keeping it at your desk can help you when you need it throughout the day. Your ritual should be something that allows you to decompress.
#5 Stay hydrated and nourished
When you have a busy work day, you are not reaching for food or water. However, these are the most important things that are going to help you. While you might not feel you have time, it can really backfire if you skip meals or rely on too much caffeine to get you through the day. Prepare for the day with a big water bottle and lots of snacks at your desk.
Relaxing at work doesn’t mean taking hours out of your day. It just means incorporating some mindful strategies that can support your wellbeing.