3 Exercises for Reducing Anxiety in the Workplace

Here are 3 exercises you can do at work to reduce your anxiety! 

1. Progressive Muscle Relaxation:

Anxiety forces you to hold a lot of physical tension in the body. Because of this, sometimes just telling yourself to relax doesn't do the job. Progressive muscle relaxation is where you start from your toes to your head progressively relaxing each of the individual muscle groups in order. Sounds more difficult than it is! Try this: Sit in your chair, back straight and eyes closed. Start at your toes, tensing them and then releasing them. Focusing on these conflicting sensations will allow your mind and body to release the physical tension that stress causes and it will allow your mind to focus on something other than your anxious thoughts. 

2. Empathize:

We hold ourselves to such high standards that most of us, especially business owners, don't allow ourselves compassion. Next time you feel anxious or stress, take a moment to ask yourself, "why am I experiencing these feelings?" Is it because you feel out of control? Are you doubting your capabilities? Are you concerned about finances? Acknowledging why you feel anxious will not only help you identify triggers (which will help you avoid them in the future) but it will also help your brain more efficiently develop solutions. You can't solve a problem that doesn't exist, right?

3. Breath work:

Breath work experts recommend that you slow down your breathing. Quick chest breathing (or holding your breath) can bring on stress as well as exacerbate existing anxiety. Switch to abdominal breathing with deeper, slower breaths. Your employees or coworkers might look at you funny but this can help catch the anxiety before it takes over your mind. Try counting your breath like this: “In-2-3, relax-2-3.” This will help slow your heart rate and calm your mind.

What do you do to stay calm during a stressful day at work? Send us an email and let us know your tips!