High levels of stress are known to wreak havoc on your health, increasing your risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and can lead to depression, overeating, anxiety and more. No fun.
The good news? While you can’t avoid every stressful situation in the workplace, there are lots of simple things you can do to minimize its effect on your body and mind.
Here are five actions proven to do just that:
Laugh.
Laughter releases hormones like cortisol, dopac, and epinephrine, which ease stress. It activates and relieves your body’s stress response, improves mood, boosts your immune system, and more. Which totally justifies watching cat videos on YouTube or whatever gets you laughing.
Eat Nutritious Foods.
Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon, broccoli, and nuts) can boost mood and energy. Skip the vending machine, which are usually packed with sugary and high sodium options that can lead to sluggish behavior.
Cuddle.
Physical affection such as touching, kissing, and hugging stimulate the brain’s release of the hormone oxytocin, which eases stress. Even playing with your dog can cause an oxytocin surge.
Get Moving.
Physical activity gets your blood flowing, which increases energy, sharpens focus, and lifts your mood. Exercise is any form can act as a stress reliever. Being active, try to fit in 30 minutes of activity each day, can boost your feel-good endorphins and distract you from daily worries.
Find Balance.
Having a life outside of work can give you greater support and pleasure, which keeps stress at bay. Make time for your hobbies, family and activities you’re passion about.
