Reducing Stress when Working from Home

As the spread of the Coronavirus has slowed down, the economy has started to get back on track. However, many business models have now shifted to the work from home structure entirely. Hybrid working models have also come into the limelight. While many have welcomed the development of working from home, others are still struggling to get the hang of it. This has mainly been due to the rise in stress and anxiety levels while working from home. If you have found yourself in this situation and are looking for ways to reduce stress when working from home, then this article has ten tips that you can follow to pull up your productivity levels and manage your time better. 

Reducing Stress When Working From Home

Let’s have a look at some of the things you can do to reduce stress when working from home. By including these practices in your daily life, you can expect your energy levels to rise and stress and anxiety symptoms to be at an all-time low. 

• Spending Time Outdoors

Staying indoors all day can lead to depression, isolation, and further add to stress and anxiety symptoms. To manage stress levels, it is important to step outdoors for a few hours every day to experience a change in the surrounding environment. 

You can run errands, go out for a walk in the park, or meet your friends and family members. Doing so can help you feel re-energized and motivated. It is also a great way to reduce the claustrophobia of being home all day and help with regulating your mood and behaviour. 

• Having a Schedule Ready for the Day

To get work done on time, it is best to plan your day out in advance. Wake up early and have a healthy and filling breakfast to keep your energy levels stable. Next, plan your day and the tasks assigned. You can even invest in time management apps to help keep you on track. This is sure to help you reach your goals on time and help you stay focused and calm.

• Practicing Meditation or Exercising 

Many of us know what meditation and exercise can do for the body, yet finding time to squeeze it into the daily routine can be a task. However, once you make the effort and get the hang of it, there is no going back. You can pick a time that suits you and engage in physical movement to regulate your blood pressure levels. This is the perfect way to de-stress and unwind. You can engage in yoga and deep breathing exercises every few hours, often from your workstation.

• Eating Well

The food we eat plays an important role in how we respond to stress. By eating a well-balanced and healthy meal, the body is nourished and energized. Thus, making it easier to overcome difficult tasks. Staying hydrated is also key here. So, be sure to fill up your water bottle and keep it by your side as you work from home. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day to prevent brain fog and anxiety. 

• Improving Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep is key to managing stress. If you’re suffering from irregular or disturbed sleep, give the following tips a try:

• Limit screen time before sleeping
• Invest in natural fragrances such as lavender 
• Drink a cup of chamomile tea before bed
• Avoid foods high in sugar and caffeine 

• Investing in a Stress Ball

There are several products that you can buy to manage your stress. Stress balls for instance are a popular way to regulate blood pressure levels. Place an order for one online and have it arrive at your doorstep in no time. 

• Cutting Down on Your Coffee Intake 

Coffee can not only make you jittery but also make your stress levels soar. If you drink 2-3 cups of coffee per day, try to cut back. In addition, avoid having coffee first thing in the morning. Have a healthy breakfast alongside to better manage your stress levels. 

• Communicating With the Team

Lack of communication between team members while working from home has been one of the main reasons for a fall in productivity and a rise in stress levels. To avoid this, engage in active communication with your team members. With access to technology, concerns and issues can be resolved with just one email or phone call. 

• Tuning Out Distractions

Whether it’s the neighbour’s dog barking or loud music coming from next door, working from home can come with distractions. Noise-cancelling headphones or background music can help you concentrate on the tasks at hand.

•   Set Up a Designated Workspace

To minimize distraction, have a designated place in your home to work. This is a great way to create a sense of structure when it comes to working from home. Invest in a desk and office chair and place them in an isolated and quiet place. Make sure the area receives adequate sunshine, has access to a window, and is well-ventilated. 

Wrapping it Up!

Adjusting to the new normal can be a struggle. But, this struggle need not become permanent. There are ways to get around it and make life stress free! Following the right techniques to stay on track and keep stress levels at a minimum can help. If you found this article useful and have a friend who is struggling to reduce stress when working from home, then do share this with them. For help finding a job that allows you to work from home, follow this link to the YMCA of Greater Toronto website.