t's hard to believe that the Christmas break was only a few short weeks ago. We have hit the ground running this year, and I'm sure I'm not alone with getting three thirtyitis on a regular basis.
In the interest of FabFeb and quitting sugar, instead of reaching for a chocolate bar I took some advice from the writers of one of my favourite websites right now for an afternoon pick-me-up:
- Be in the moment, completely, with just one task. Women often take the mickey out of their significant others for not being able to multi-task (guilty!), but I think they may be on to something here. Concentrate on the one thing you are doing - don't even give the next thing on your list a second thought. It is amazing how easily you can get through something when you are not worrying about what comes next.
- Focus on what you can control, and let everything else go. Regardless of what you do, your life will go on without you. The stress you feel is entirely driven by your own fear and imagination, if you let go what you can't control (i.e. the weather, what others think or a million other 'what ifs') you will use less energy.
- Accept people the way they are, and smile. From supermarket trolley rage to waiting for someone that is ALWAYS late, we have all felt frustration when someone says or does something that we just wouldn't do. Let's be clear here, you will never change them. The best idea is just to accept what is (it is what it is - one of my favourite sayings), smile, and carry on with your day.
- Hit the road. Not literally. Just take a 10-15 minute walk outside to clear your head. Maybe even smell some roses.
- Meditate. I know, you have visions of sitting cross legged in a field, eyes closed, chanting OOMM. A more practical approach is to do a quick exercise, at your desk, without the fear of being ridiculed (although, see #2 above). Focus on your body for 30 seconds; notice how each part of it feels right now. Pay particular attention to your breathing, listen to it, and feel it.
We are all busy in some capacity - we have places to be, things to do, and people relying on us. If you give even one of these suggestions a go, you will be on your way to relieving a little stress. Try it - you have nothing to lose except a few frown-lines.