It seems like a lot of us have jobs that are pretty stressful, and even when we do get breaks, it’s tough to truly chill out. Unfortunately, not being able to unwind can take a toll on our health in the long run.
However, there’s good news. You can actually train yourself to relax better, according to an initiative called INQA by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. This is part of a broader effort to retain skilled workers in the country.
So how can you make the most of your breaks? It’s really all about trying to clear your head from work. One easy way is to step outside for some fresh air or have a friendly chat with co-workers. But there are also simple relaxation exercises you can do to help recharge your mental batteries.
One method to consider is conscious breathing. Take a deep breath in, hold it for a moment, and then let it out slowly. The key is to focus on exhaling. Keeping this up for a while can really make a difference, according to INQA.
If you want to relieve some muscle tension, try tensing specific muscle groups for a few seconds before relaxing them. For instance, you can flex your abs, hold the tightness, and then let it go.
You could also try a simple technique while sitting. Reach under your chair with one hand and push up against the seat while pushing your body down. After a few seconds, let your body relax completely and notice the difference.
To ease tight shoulders, attempt to let them drop naturally, allowing your arms to hang comfortably by your sides.
Practicing relaxation techniques like these can be incredibly beneficial before facing a tough meeting or a stressful part of your day. According to INQA, these methods can help release pent-up energy, lower anxiety levels, reduce irritability, and even take away pain caused by stress-induced muscle tension.
