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Stress Stoppers
Stress
Stretch
When you are
under stress, tension accumulates in your neck and jaw. Take a minute
to gently and slowly move your head from front to back, side to
side, and in a full circle. For your jaw, stretch your mouth open
and slowly move your lower jaw from side to side and front to back.
(NOTE:
If you notice any pain or if you have had any injuries to your back,
neck or jaw, check with your doctor first.)
Set
a SMART Goal (and achieve it!)
Unrealistic
goals that never seem to be reached add to your stress level. Try
setting one goal for yourself this week using the SMART approach:
Specific -
Pick one small goal and write it down. Measurable - Can you count
it or check it off a list? Achievable - Is it realistic? If not,
make it smaller. Rewarded - Decide how to reward yourself when you
reach your goal. Time-limited - Set a specific, realistic date to
finish or achieve your goal.
Comedy
Break -
Laugh at Stress
Set aside some
time for laughter, your body's natural stress-release mechanism.
Rent your favourite comedy video. Tape a TV show that you know makes
you laugh and keep it on hand for stress emergencies. Go to the
library and borrow a book by an author who can make you laugh. Read
the daily comics in the newspaper. Or, phone the funniest person
you know!
Walking
Breaks
Walk away from
Stress Instead of sitting down for another cup of stress-inducing
caffeine on your coffee break, lunch hour or when you're at home...try
going for a stress-relieving and energizing walk. If you don't like
walking by yourself, try forming a walking club with two or three
of your co-workers or friends.
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