Tech jobs are one of the most stressful occupations out there. There is so much that goes into your job you sometimes don’t know when to disconnect from it. Our bodies are made to handle small amounts of stress at a time, but when that stress becomes chronic, it can affect the body in significant ways. Muscles tense up, headaches bloom, your heart rate skyrockets, your breathing becomes labored and shallow, and countless other effects can happen. According to apa.org, “Chronic stress, or a constant stress experienced over a prolonged period, can contribute to long-term problems of the heart and blood vessels.”
As difficult as it may become, stress is manageable. The following are things you can do to relax:
Stretch
As mentioned before, stress can be absorbed in our muscles and make us tense. Stretching out our muscles helps relieve the tension and relax us. Something as simple as rolling out your neck or chest-opening poses can help and can be done in your chair. Walking around to stretch your legs and get some fresh air is great, as well.
Close Your Eyes
Simply closing your eyes can give you a tremendous sense of relief from a chaotic workday or household. According to psychologytoday.com, “Several studies over the past few years show that closing your eyes boosts brainpower, improves memory, and even ignites creativity.” Think of it as a quick power-up!
Organize Your Space and Hire Help
A disorganized office can wreak havoc on your stress levels. The chaos in your space can mirror your mind. Take a moment to tidy up your workspace by leaving things you need and disposing of or putting away things you don’t.
Furthermore, businesses and/or Individuals in senior positions also rely on outsourcing. In other words, you can always find a reliable freelancer to take off some of the load. Just make sure you take the time to ask the right questions before hiring a freelancer you don’t know.
Cuddle With Your Fur-Baby
Our fluffy friends aren’t just there to be loved; they reciprocate that love. A few minutes of snuggle time after a hard day at work can help lower anxiety levels. Who’s a good boy/girl? Your fur baby!
Eat Some Chocolate
“A square (about 1.4 oz) of chocolate can help reduce stress. Chocolate is rich in flavonoids (potent antioxidants), and they help blood vessels relax by decreasing blood pressure,” says Cordialis Msora-Kasago, RD, regional nutrition manager for Sodexo and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The more cacao present in chocolate, the more benefits it has.
Laugh
“Laughter is the best medicine.” Henri de Mondeville is right on the money with that! Take a moment for a breather and check out a gut-busting video on Tik Tok or YouTube for a good dose of increased blood flow and inject an immunity boost in the form of laughter.
Talk It Out
Let’s face it, with a role that high up and all the responsibilities that fall on you, you’re bound to come home with a lot to say about your day. Spill the tea with your co-worker at work or with your spouse when you get home or with a family member. The more you talk out your stresses, the better you feel. You can even scream it out if you want.