Published:

03/17/2011 11:26am

.CALM

.Calm
Four creative ways to manage stress at work

Kathleen Hawkins
Copyright by Kathleen Hawkins

Currently there are more than 300 domain-name extensions, including the popular .com, .biz, .edu, .net, and .org. The world today is moving so fast, though, and making so many demands on us that I think we need a new extension that would remind us to relax: .Calm. But until that extension becomes available, here are some things we can do right now to better manage stress throughout a busy day.

1. Ommm. Use words that create the state of mind you want. How often do we hear commercials that ask, “Do you suffer from stress? Are you under pressure? How can you beat stress and combat it?” Suffer, under pressure, beat, combat; it sounds so warlike. The words that we use when we talk about stress can be inflammatory, and language helps to create our experiences. So instead, think about what you do want: to relax, reduce stress, feel peaceful. For example, instead of saying, “I’m going to beat this stress,” say something like, “I’m going for a walk to relax … lighten up … reclaim my joy … get some fresh air … enjoy the sunshine.”

2. Hahaha. Laugh every day: go to YouTube, type in “babies laughing,” “comedy,” or “funny” and you’ll discover millions of reasons to laugh. The videos are short (about two or three minutes) and can really brighten up your mood. Also, seek out cheerful co-workers with whom you can laugh on a regular basis. Laughing has been proven to be physically and mentally healthy for us.

3. Zzzz. There’s no rush hour in “heaven,” meaning in a heavenly state of mind. If it feels like things are spinning out of control, stop, take a deep breath, and sit quietly at your desk for few minutes, or go into an empty conference room or sit in your car. If you’re too busy to take even a minute for yourself that probably means that you need to take several minutes. With your eyes closed, get centered and gather your thoughts. When you slow down like this, for even a few minutes, you might find that you actually accomplish more; you’ll think more clearly and be more focused when you return to work. Remember, you’re doing this so you can stay centered and on top of things in order to function better, so taking a five or 10-minute “mini-vacation” isn't goofing off; it’s necessary.

4. Reboot. Look out a window for a few minutes, breathe deeply, and remember a time you felt relaxed, peaceful, and excited about being alive. This will help you to re-create that frame of mind, and you can get back to work refreshed and ready to do what you need to do.

And now, who do we talk to about creating that .calm extension?

Copyright by Kathleen Hawkins
Author of Spirit Incorporated:
How to Follow Your Spiritual Path
From 9 to 5—Whatever Your Job,
Faith, or Challenge
www.WinningSpirit.com