Time out
When I am feeling stressed I put myself in a 15-30 min. time out.
Jacqulin, Nice approach and I think this is something that many people taking this class would benefit from. You are lucky to have a co-worker who cares so much. For others who are not in this situation, don't be afraid to make your own calendar invite to remind yourself to take some time for you.
Dr. Melissa Read
I am forced to take time-out at work because one of my co-workers will send me an email that pops up on the screen which says "Time to move away from the computer". This is the time for me to take time to walk or just go to the car and listen to music.
Paula, So true. If all else fails, sometimes we can retreat into our own worlds - even when others are around. It's a great coping mechanism when you can't get away.
Dr. Melissa Read
Great approach if you have the time and space!!! If not, sometimes just a mental retreat - I've taken a brek just to go sit in my car occasionally
Lisa, Nice. Some people feel embarrassed about singing in their car because they worry others can hear or see them. I love hearing that you are bold enough.
Dr. Melissa Read
I do the same. Singing loud to the music can also help releive stress. And in your car is the best place... no one can hear but you!
I'd have to agree. Music is a reflection of how we feel. When I get stressed, I play Van Halen (David Lee Roth), and when I'm in a upbeat mood, it's 80's music. It brings back fond memories of days gone by and makes me smile. It seems to be enough to snap me out of my negitive mood.
Time outs are wonderful, redirecting the negative energy into something more positive helps you and others around you as well.
Robert, Yes, these spaces are great if you've got them. If the answer is no, you could always ask to make one!
Dr. Melissa Read
A lot of companies now provide quiet rooms for their employees just for this reason. Maybe inquire if your company haws one?
Marilyn, Sounds like an excellent plan on both accounts! Walking is a great form of exercise. It gets the blood flowing and many have reported that it has been linked to weight loss too. Decreasing caffeinated beverages will also help you get some sleep, which has huge benefits.
Dr. Melissa Read
I am changing two strategies in my life to manage stress. I am going to start walking daily and decreasing my caffenated beverages.
I love to go walking with motivational speaking playing as i walk.
Just stepping back and relaxing no matter how long should do some good for anyone!
I agree with using the drive home to de-stress. I use country music, because I like the stories. The drive with music puts a buffer-zone between my work and my family.
Philip, Traffic can be so tough. Sometimes we can plan our schedules around it. Other times, it simply cannot be avoided. I recommend books on tape as well as music for rush hour. Books on tape can really take you away, and you can learn something valuable from them too.
Dr. Melissa Read
I enjoyed learning other ways to cope from everyone, i cope by line dancing. Line dancing helps me to release stress and build energy.
As long as the traffic isn't hectic, the drive home is certainly a good time to de-stress. Being an instructor who teaches a few nights a week this term, it is easy to de-stress on the ride home. On the days I don't have a night class, I usually end up driving home during rush hour traffic. Although the music helps, the traffic could also be the cause of stress.
Brian, What a great way to unwind and get through the commute. I'm really glad to hear you are so great at knowing what works best for you. Sometimes all it takes is the right kind of music.
Dr. Melissa Read
