Multiple tasks all at the same time are not unusual at work. While we try our best to focus on one thing at a time, sometimes multiple projects are hard to avoid and we get overwhelmed and stressed by them. We wonder if we can finish everything right on time. We get stressed thinking that we won’t and mull over why we let our cramming lead us to this predicament. Or sometimes, it’s beyond our control and we have no choice but to finish the tasks. Listen. You might be in a rush but you won’t finish anything if you continue to work with a troubled and stressed mind. You have to deal with it first or at least manage it to some point before going back to your duties. You will be thanking yourself for taking that much-needed break in between fulfilling your tasks at work. Lucky you that there are ways to relax so that you could keep your motivation steady throughout the word day.

One thing you want to avoid is burnout. When you go through this, you would feel demotivated and it would be a difficult chore to be efficient at work. Take it from us. You will become a better team member, colleague, and employee if you could relax in highly stressful environments. When the mind is clear from negative thoughts, you become much more productive and energized to finish work. This will give you higher job satisfaction and a positive mindset all throughout. Your employees would love working around someone who is calm, friendly, kind, and professional.

Here are some ways how to relax on a stressful day:

1. Breathe in the fresh air.

You focus on negative thoughts when you are highly stressed. It becomes overwhelming and you feel helpless. In times like this, what most of us need is to calm down. Take deep breaths of fresh air to recharge your mind and you’ll be able to focus on fulfilling your tasks. If you are working at home, have a set time for your break. When the bell rings, go outside and walk around while breathing in the fresh air. Observe the here and now, focusing on the things you could see, the sounds you hear, and the aroma that reaches your nose. Feel the sun hitting your face and appreciate the present. This change in scenery can help you get back on track when you return to your workspace.

2. Take some time off to meditate.

You could meditate as short as three minutes in a day and it could already change the course of how it will look like. Don’t think of it as a waste of time especially if you are feeling stressed. You won’t be able to do anything with an agitated mind so relax, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. You may meditate in the morning so that your mind is not yet clouded with a million thoughts about work.

If you have never meditated, all you have to do is to find a comfortable position, place your hands on your lap, close your eyes, and count your breaths as you inhale and exhale. To clear your headspace, your focus should be on the contraction and expansion of your chest.

Like any other practice, this will take time to get used to, which is why it’s important to make a daily routine out of it. You’ll be acquainted with the practice and it’ll become much more natural to you. Let go of the stress and let meditation do its magic on you.

3. Listen to calming music.

You’ll be surprised by the many benefits that music can give you. Simply make a happy playlist and listen to it when you’re stressed out. The light tunes could uplift your mood while instrumental music can help you calm down while you work.

If you don’t have a trusty playlist of your own, there are tons available online for focus and relaxation. Music will help you reframe your mindset by diverting your attention to other things more worthy of your headspace.

4. Release body tension.

We all know that sitting for long hours could cause muscle tension and body discomfort. Check in with yourself regularly and keep an eye out for how your body feels while working.

As a primary and long-term solution, invest in ergonomic furniture such as an ergonomic office chair that will provide back and neck support. A height adjustable standing desk will help you to easily shift from a sitting to a standing position. A standing desk converter could help improve your posture.

And of course, do not forget to stretch! This will release the body tension caused by your work stress.

5. Watch what you eat and drink.

It may be tempting to eat junk food when you’re stressed at work. While you could indulge from time to time, it’s much better if you maintain a healthy diet and drink lots of water. You must be in good physical health if you want to be a calm and relaxed person. Junk food is tempting and tastes great but most have the tendency to make your body feel like crap after. Healthy food will energize you and make you more productive. When you’re productive throughout the workday, you can relax for the rest of your day.

6. Chat with your colleagues.

Take a break and talk to your colleagues about non-work things. Be sensitive and strike a quick conversation with your workmate who is not busy at the moment. Not only can it destress you, but you’ll also be able to build and strengthen professional relationships. Light and casual conversations could help add a little spontaneity to your workday and in general, bring your mental health to a better state.

7. Create an ideal work environment for yourself.

Desk clutter can cause stress as well. Set aside time to organize your things and make your workspace neat and tidy. Have a desk organizer or file cabinet to arrange your work essentials.

Motivational quotes, pictures of your loved ones, and plants in your workspace can help you relax in times of stress.

Lastly, invest in ergonomic furniture for a comfortable, healthy, and efficient work experience.