She Strengthens

Breaking the Stress Cycle: Finding Relief in a Busy World

Do you often find yourself racing against the clock, juggling multiple tasks, and feeling like you’re constantly on edge? You’re not alone. Many of us live in a state of perpetual stress, with our bodies and minds paying the price.

The Stress Response: A Double-Edged Sword

While stress can be beneficial in small doses, helping us react to danger or meet deadlines, chronic stress can have devastating effects on our well-being. Dr. Kristen Race, Ph.D., explains that when we experience stress, our emotional limbic system takes over, releasing chemicals like adrenaline into our bodies. This can lead to impulsive decisions, anxiety, and a host of other problems.

Retraining Your Brain: A 60-Second Solution

Luckily, our brains are capable of change. By taking short breaks to relax and focus on our breath, we can begin to rewire our stress response. One simple technique is the Square Breath, which involves inhaling for 3 seconds, holding for 3 seconds, exhaling for 3 seconds, and holding again for 3 seconds. Repeat this process 3-5 times, and feel the calm wash over you.

Tips for Reducing Stress at Work

In addition to the Square Breath, here are a few more strategies for managing stress in the workplace:

• Take a 1-minute break to stretch, move your body, or practice gratitude
• Listen actively to others, focusing on their words and emotions
• Prioritize tasks, breaking them down into manageable chunks
• Use reminders to take short breaks throughout the day

Creating a Culture of Calm

By incorporating these simple techniques into our daily routines, we can begin to shift our baseline from stressed to relaxed. We’ll be more productive, creative, and compassionate, both at work and at home. So take a deep breath, and start your journey towards a more peaceful, balanced life.

Start Small, Start Now

Don’t wait until you feel overwhelmed to take action. Begin with small, achievable steps, like taking a 1-minute break each hour to breathe and refocus. As you make progress, you’ll find it easier to prioritize your well-being and create a more sustainable, stress-free lifestyle.