ways to destress after work

Research shows that those who have a mindful perspective are more able to focus on the present moment and turn their focus away from the stress of the past or anxiety over the future. This translates into a greater ability to let job stress stay at work and enjoy the time you have each evening and weekend to simply enjoy life. By https://ecosoberhouse.com/ engaging in online therapy through Talkspace, you can learn valuable skills and ways to de-stress from work so you can take charge of your mental well-being. Don’t let post-work stress control your life — seek professional support from Talkspace today. Be aware of what causes your stress and take breaks during your work day.

ways to destress after work

Appointments at Mayo Clinic

The APA suggests limiting afternoon caffeine intake and nighttime screen use. Dr. Lassen recommends keeping a “toolbox” to use in moments of stress that can include words of self-affirmation, calming or joyful pictures and a journal to help write away any negative thoughts. Consider writing a list of all the things that typically cause you a great deal of stress at work. Next to each, try to write at least two possible ways to manage those stressors ahead of time.

Online meditation options

ways to destress after work

Other supplements, including Rhodiola, ashwagandha, B vitamins, and L-theanine, may also help reduce stress, though more research is needed to understand their potential benefits better. These benefits seem related to yoga’s effect on your nervous system and stress response. Still, people sensitive to caffeine may experience increased anxiety and stress after consuming less caffeine than this, so it’s important to consider your tolerance.

Popular Strategies for Stressed Students

Low psychological safety is directly linked to higher stress and lower job satisfaction. Psych safety refers to the belief that you can be yourself, set boundaries, and speak up at work without facing punishment, rejection, or isolation. These can be different for everyone and may be related to the type of job. You can practice short versions of your favorite meditation at your desk or during a restroom break. In fact, all physical activity can boost feel-good hormones such as endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin.

Step #4: Give yourself a sleep edge

  • Exercise, mindfulness, spending time with a pet, minimizing screen time, and getting outside more often are all effective methods.
  • Switching up your routine can help you step out of work mode and into relaxation.
  • Make time to do things that you enjoy, such as spending quality time with friends and family and exploring new or existing hobbies, suggests Dr. Lassen.
  • Having supportive people in your life is the key to stress management.

When you start off the day with planning, good nutrition, and a positive attitude, you might find that the stress of your job rolls off your back more easily. While stress at how to destress after work work is common, finding a low-stress job is hard (if not impossible). A more realistic approach is to adopt effective coping strategies to reduce stress at your current job.

ways to destress after work

According to studies, participants who engage in leisure activities had higher levels of positive psychosocial states and lower levels of depression. Another study found that people who partake in leisure activities have lower stress levels and better stress-management skills. According to Dr J. Kip Matthews, a sports and exercise psychologist, regular exercise allows your body to streamline communication between the systems involved in the stress response. That’s why the less active we are, the more challenged we are when dealing with physical and emotional stress. Although stress is unavoidable, being chronically stressed takes a toll on your physical and mental health.

ways to destress after work

Workplace conflict can take a significant toll on your emotional well-being. Having people you can rely on during tough times can alleviate some of the built-up tension. Listening to an interesting podcast between meetings or watching a funny YouTube video can give you relaxing pauses throughout the day. I understand how freaking hard it can be to have a peaceful night if you’ve been grinding all day. As I near the end of this article—and, therefore, the end of my workday—I know I’m going to mull over the edits I want to make for the next hour or so.

ways to destress after work

Try 4-7-8 breathing

Ready to get started?

  • These science-based exercises will equip you and those you work with tools to better manage stress and find a healthier balance in your life.
  • With the right strategies, you can keep workplace stress to a manageable level.
  • They can help you navigate the conversation and offer troubleshooting tips.
  • It’s common to become unable to separate your work and home lives or to find a balance between the two, says Dr. Lassen.