Ever experience blurred vision, watery eyes or pain behind the neck? Often feel exhausted and sluggish at the end of the day, even without much physical exertion? These could be your body's way of telling you that you have been sitting for long hours at a stretch at your work desk.
Working without breaks can be counterproductive and might result in stress. Here are some simple ways in which you can de-stress yourself without getting away from your desk:
1. Gaze out of your window
In school, we were told not to gaze out of the window while classes were going on. However, sometimes that is just what your mind needs for rejuvenation and regained focus.
If your thoughts happen to drift away, take a short break. Allow your thoughts to flow. The sub-conscious works in mysterious ways; you just might find the solution you were looking for, in the midst of your daydreaming.
2. Doodle Away
Whenever you panic over an important assignment, or hyperventilate over an impossible deadline, take a pen and paper and let your right brain go crazy. Make some cartoons or just draw whatever comes to your mind.
Meanwhile, your left brain takes a break so you can start fresh with your work once again. Remember, you want to relax, not add to your stress. So don't worry about how your picture or sketch turns out, even random squiggles can help!
3. Meditate
While it may seem boring, meditation has been proven quite effective to manage your mind. Simply close your eyes and take deep breaths.
If you are unable to concentrate with your eyes closed, then look at soothing images or listen to relaxing music. The sound of flowing water is known for its calming effect. Perform better in meetings or achieve deadlines with a clear head.
4. Go to Your Happy Place
Your happy place is any environment where you feel safe and relaxed. It can be anything and have anything that you fancy.
It could be the house made of candy from 'Hansel and Gretel'. Or a room filled with books. To each his own, right?
5. Flex Your Muscles
Staying in one position can make your body stiff. It is imperative that you do certain movements that will help you relax and prevent your muscles from sleeping.
Open your jaw as wide as you can. Roll your shoulders back twice, then forward twice, then back once more. Also, stretch your arms and legs frequently.
6. Mind Your Posture
Most corporate jobs today require you to sit in front of a screen. Our bodies start to contract and emulate the stress we feel in our muscular system. This is most reflected on the back, neck and shoulders.
Make sure that your head is in alignment with your neck and that your back is straight. According to good ergonomics, your computer screen should be at least an arm's length away from you.
These six tips will go a long way to help you stay fit and be more productive and comfortable at work. However, don't let these activities come in the way of your work.