Ways to de-stress
1. Take a lunch break
Research by business information supplier Datamonitor shows
that the average lunch break taken by office workers in the UK is now only 33
minutes, while the latest report by food and service management company Eurest
shows that 42 per cent of workers in London regularly skip lunch and many of
those won’t have had an adequate breakfast either. This can lead to low blood
sugar and subsequently tiredness and lethargy.
2. Learn to say no
Anyone that lacks assertiveness finds it difficult to say no
and can end up overloaded with work. Training in assertiveness can teach people
how to state their needs more clearly, enabling them to manage colleagues more
effectively, enjoy a balanced lifestyle, be more effective and productive and
less stressed.
3. Go for a walk
It’s cheap, it’s quick, it’s aerobic and it burns calories.
Furthermore, it can be done anywhere and doesn’t need specialist equipment.
Walking also improves muscle tone, conditions the heart and is great for alleviating
stress.
4. Join a gym
De-stress and tone-up at lunchtime. Many companies organise a
discounted membership of local clubs for their employees. Â
5. Start yoga
Good for suppleness, strength and great for de-stressing.
Classes cost from around £5 per hour.
Yoga is non-competitive, and is for all ages and any fitness
levels, just make sure you have a qualified instructor.
6. Reflexology
The gentle application of a specific pressure massage technique
on precise reflex points on the feet or hands, based on the premise that reflex
points on these areas correspond to all body parts. Reflexology helps activate
the body’s healing and cleansing mechanisms, bringing about a state of health
and peace of mind. Sessions last from 30-60 minutes and cost from £30. Contact
the Association of Reflexologists on 0870 567 3320.
7. Float away the
tension
Flotation tanks offer a relaxing and gentle way of de-stressing.
Tanks vary, but most are individual ‘pods’ filled with saline water kept at
body temperature. You lie in the water and close the top of the pod, turn off
the lights and listen to relaxing music as the salt water suspends the body.
8. Head and shoulder
massage
Promotes relaxation, healing and well-being. Costs about £30 a
session. Contact the British Massage Therapy Council on 01865 774123 for a
local practitioner.
9. Aomatherapy
Essential oils are massaged into the body, giving a positive
psychological and physiological effect. The blend of oils can either stimulate
or relax and is mixed by the therapist to suit each individual. Find a
therapist who is a member of the International Federation of Aromatherapists.
Prices start from around £25 per treatment.
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10. Let off steam
Advice given to firefighters at the Hampshire Fire & Rescue
Services by its occupational health, safety & welfare department is that
it’s good to vent your feelings, acknowledge them to yourself and share them
with others. Unburdening your thoughts to a friend, writing your feelings down
or joining a support group can be beneficial to work-related stress. So go on,
have a good cry, swear or shout.
