5 Easy Ways to Reduce Stress in 5 Minutes

Rough day at work?  Did you know stress can seriously
harm you? Most solutions are dealt with in the long-term.
So what can be done in the next five minutes to reduce—
and prevent—stress? If you don't have time for an hour-
long yoga class or quiet meditation session - try one of
these five instant stress busters you can do at your desk.
They take only a few minutes and will bring down your
stress level right away.

1. Remember to Breathe

There is no simplier way to relax. Slow, deep breaths will help you lower your blood pressure and heart rate. You can
try yoga-breathing through one nostril at a time or a 4-7-8 method. Sit in your chair or on the floor with your back straight. Breathe in for a count of 4, hold your breath for a count of 7, then exhale for a count of 8. Repeat this four times.

2. Write It Down

Just putting our emotions on paper can make them seem less intimidating. A problem will semm much smaller when
written on paper. And if this will help you, try journaling every day in the future - this will help you deal with stress instantly. Keeping a journal may be one way to effectively relieve stress-related symptoms due to its meditative and
reflective effects.

3. Hug It Out

Hugging may actually reduce blood pressure and stress levels in adults. When someone hugs you, your body releases oxytocin, a hormone that promotes pro-social behaviors that can contribute to relaxation, trust, and compassion. And, of course, forming positive relationships
is also a key way to help reduce stress and anxiety.

4. Passwords To Change

Change your passwords to something creative and inspiring! Think about how many times do you have to type your passwords. So let it be your mantra! Choose something that will cheer you up.

5. Start Planning A Vacation

What can be better than warm sand, crashing waves and a gentle ocean breeze. Take a five-minute break from your work and surf the web for some future vacation options.
This doesn't have to be serious. Sometimes the whole fun is in planning the trip.

We all now know that stress isn’t helping any of us. We cannot eliminate or escape stress at the workplace. But it’s time to do well by feeling well—at work and elsewhere. And you could start with just our tips, your thoughts and your breath. How easy is that?