Let’s face it – workdays can be crazy. We can feel run off our feet, pulled in multiple directions at once and then when the day starts winding down, we realize we haven’t really had a break. We tend to repeat the cycle over and over again, until we reach a point of feeling stressed, overwhelmed and exhausted.
It’s an all too common occurrence to let our self care slide when the pressure is on at work, but with a few mindful tricks, we can turn that around. Whether you’re working a full time job, running your own business or feeling the pressure of work, these 3 tips will help you slow down, infuse mindfulness into your day and reconnect with yourself again.
TIP 1 – Set a daily self care goal
Setting an intention or goal for your day is key to helping you take action. Start each morning by setting one key self care goal that you know you can achieve. This could include;- Take a 30 minute walk at lunch
- Go to an evening yoga class
- Buy a nourishing, balanced lunch
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
Setting a morning intention or goal to take care of your body and health will keep you on track. Once you declare your own goals, it’s easier to achieve them and you have something to work towards.
Treat your self-care goal just like any other important business task – it’s a priority to look after yourself!
TIP 2 – Remind yourself to move
This may sound a bit silly, but for anyone who sits majority of the day, it’s so important to remind yourself to move regularly. Breaking up the time you sit will get your blood pumping and refresh your brain. I advise getting up and walking around for a few minutes every 45 minutes. Use the Stand Up – Work Break Timer mobile app to remind yourself to get up out of that chair!
In addition to regular mini movement breaks, aim to fill either your morning, lunch or evening with dedicated exercise. If you’re lacking time, try a quick high intensity workout. I use the mobile app Seven which includes a mix of 7 minute high intensity workouts. We can all spare 7 minutes, right?
TIP 3 – Have an attitude of gratitude
Often the workday can be stressful, distracting and overwhelming. If you find yourself ending each day on a slump, feeling uninspired, then an attitude of gratitude if your best answer to get back to a happy you.
Practicing gratitude improves so many things in the body, mind and soul including better sleep, mood, improved relationships, increased productivity and so much more. Try journaling in the morning or night and write 3 things you are grateful for. If you’re not into keeping a journal, you can always make a mental note of the things you are grateful for. Try to make this a daily habit and I can guarantee you’ll find yourself feeling more zen in no time.
Remember that mindfulness and wellness is about forming daily habits and being consistent. Counteract the busy, stressful workday with regular mindful habits and increased exercise and you’ll notice your productivity soars & your mind feels less clouded. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for it down the track!
Jenna Black is an online business mentor for health & lifestyle coaches and creative business owners. With over 8 years experience in online business and a background in health coaching, Jenna works with women from around the world to help them build their business with purpose, soul and strategy.
Find Jenna online at www.jennaleeblack.com