India is celebrating its 76th Independence Day on August 15. Being the day we got our freedom from the Britishers, it is of immense significance. The day is synonymous with the right to do what we want without anyone stopping us. If this power is snatched from us in the face of contrary situations, we might feel stressed and life will seem out of control. Work stress has similar repurcussions on our psyche. So let's make a resolution to stay work-stress free this Independence Day!
The Corona virus pandemic still refuses to go and is a constant stressor in our lives. It has taken a drastic toll on our mental health and our work-life balance. However, freedom of mind from the ups and downs of our daily livelihood is a choice which we can take everyday to lead a happy, stable and calm life. There are various ways in which we can avoid stress. Here are some examples:
Prioritise, prioritise, prioritise
Always start your day by prioritising your work goals. The things that need your urgent attention must be dealt with first and should be given your full time and effort. This way, we can steer clear of procrastinations and needless worries about them. Take your stress head on and address it instead of neglecting it till the 11th hour.
Also, leave those things that are more of a burden and of not much importance. Know and understand the difference and work towards it so that you can have a satisfied smile of accomplishment by the end of each day.
Create Healthy Boundaries
Learn to say 'no' to people and things that are giving you nothing but headaches. Do not take on more than you can bear. Do not feel pressurised to please everyone around you as refusing to do certain things for others is never a bad thing. Honour yourself and your needs too. Also, be open to taking new situations in your stride and adapting to them instead of needlessly worrying about them.
Indulge Your Hobbies & Life Passions
Did you always want to learn singing? Did you maintain a 'Dear diary' when you were small? Do you get enamoured by looking at your friend's latest Mandala and reminisce your art in school? So why not go for it? Taking out time to do pleasurable activities soothes both our mind as well as body. The old adage 'All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy' has a lot of wisdom hidden in it. Both our body as well as mind need some down time when you must literally dance away your blues and clear your mind off junk by sketching on a canvas! Start now...
Eat Right & Move That Body
For healthy mind, you first need a healthy body. It's said that taking care of your gut will streamline your mind too. So how do we do that? By eating fresh fruits and vegetables for our vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidant needs; nuts, legumes, cheese or fish for our protein needs. These essential nutrients are to repair and protect our brain too.
Also, doing some form of physical activity daily such as jogging or brisk walking will not only protect your heart but also make it lighter and free from anxiety and depression.
Rabindranath Tagore had envisioned a free India as a place 'Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high'. Let's say a firm 'NO' to work stress this Independence Day!