How To Beat Stress
The driver who cuts you off on your commute. That remark your spouse made last evening. The to-do list as long as your arm. The deadlines. The annoying things your coworkers do sometimes.
These little frustrations and others all add up to stress. Not only does stress take its toll on your health and well being but it might also cause you to lash out at a coworker or worse, do something else you’ll regret later.
That’s why it’s important to know how to keep stress in check and one of the best ways is with meditation. All it takes is a little practice. The payoff is greater calmness, a lighter attitude and more happiness in life. Want to try it? Just follow these simple steps:
*Make time to meditate. Set aside a few minutes a day, morning, afternoon or evening. The important thing is to establish a routine.
*Find a quiet place. Eliminate distractions like TV, radio and interruptions. If you play music, pick something soothing.
*Sit comfortably. A chair will work fine. You don’t have to sit cross-legged on the floor. But don’t slouch. Keep your back straight.
*Consciously relax. This isn’t as hard as it sounds. Just close your eyes slightly and let your breath gently rise and fall. Don’t try to control your breath—just let it happen. As you let go, watch your thoughts as they come into your mind, acknowledge them and then let them float away. Adopt the attitude that you don’t have a care in the world and let that feeling wash over you.
*Sink deeper into silence. As you let yourself relax, you’ll feel yourself becoming calmer and quieter. Let it happen as you explore even deeper relaxation.
While you’re trying meditation, why not bring your new-found calmness to your work? Don’t let petty frustrations or annoyances throw you off your game. Keep the big picture–your safety and that of your coworkers–firmly in mind. What’s the point of flying off the handle or simmering with anger? If you have a complaint, express it calmly and constructively and then let it go.
Remember that your coworkers are doing their best, just as you are. Try seeing things from their point of view and you’ll find you have more in common than you think.
Keeping these things in mind, you’ll experience more teamwork, more job satisfaction and more stress-free days. And you can’t beat that.
When You Work With Others…
COOL & CALM IS SMART & SAFE!
*Copyright 2008 Harkins Safety B242
