Simple and Effective Self-Care Practices to Weave into Your Work Day

Whether you’re working from home or at the office, bubble baths, face masks and pedicures are not going to cut it as your go-to self-care tool. Let’s be honest, a bubble bath midday in the office will land you straight in a meeting with HR. So, what to do? It’s been a stressful day, week, month, and maybe even year. Deadlines are piling up, and you are one email away from a downward spiral.

Here are three effective self-care practices you can add to your workday to reduce stress:

Take a breath

Sounds simple right? So simple that it’s often overlooked. Taking a few moments to acknowledge your breathing will allow you to slow down and come back into the present moment. How do we tune into our breath? Give yourself a few moments (if 5 minutes is all you have, this is still going to be effective), and put your feet flat on the floor, have your back against your seat for support, then begin by breathing in for a count of four seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds, and exhale for four seconds. Continue this pattern for as long as you need!

Have a laugh

Who said work couldn’t be fun? Bring a little joy into your day with a dose of laughter, it’s the best kind of medicine! Start by collecting all your favourite memes and TikToks into one folder on your phone, when you need a mood-boosting moment, revisit them, send them to friends, and simply enjoy. Not a fan of memes? Put on a YouTube video of your favourite comedian or late-night talk show host. 

Treat yourself

Experiencing the dreaded afternoon slump? Why not treat yourself? Give yourself permission to experience a few moments of pure bliss with your favourite beverage in one hand and a sweet treat in the other. Leave the phone and emails behind and give yourself that uninterrupted time to just simply enjoy the taste and the smell of what you are having. Guarantee you will walk away from your simple little treat feeling renewed and ready to tackle the rest of the day.

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If you’ve been struggling with work-related stress and you’re finding it increasingly hard to take moments for yourself, our therapists at Shift are here to support you. Reach out whenever the time feels right for you

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