You know the routine.
You wake up, you go to work, after a few cups of coffee, you feel pretty good.
Then, “Monday” happens.
Tempers flare in the morning meeting, you screw up on a report, one of your co-workers spoils The Walking Dead finale in the next cubicle. You can’t WAIT for the day to be done.
Well, no fear! All is not lost! Here are three easy steps to de-stress on the start to your workweek:
1EXERCISE FOR 30 MINUTES
Whether it’s deep breathing in the conference room on your lunch hour or running around your office, fit it in. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem.” So, pop in that old “Sweatin To The Oldies” tape and let Richard take your mind off that dreaded meeting with the boss later in the day.
2EXERCISE YOUR MIND
Do a Sudoku puzzle, color, or just read something that interests you. It’ll keep your brain occupied on the task at hand and not the looming deadline in the office.
3PET AN ANIMAL
Yes, that’s right..find a furry friend and cuddle it! Maybe you can take a lunch hour and visit the animal shelter or visit a friend who has a sweet doggie to hug. It has been scientifically proven that petting animals releases endorphins (the feel good hormones) so, even if your Monday is a MOAN-day, you’ll start to feel better about it by loving on a critter even for a few minutes!
So, there you have it. Mondays don’t have to be stressful if you have a plan in place. Try these and let us know if they work for you.
