The evidence keeps mounting that while we love our gadgets and technology is a help to us, they also aid in creating additional stress in our lives. This current podcast episode shows you how to detox from this stress and still be productive.
I did a post awhile back where I posed the question “when is it time to unplug?” which received a great deal of attention from my listeners and led me to the conclusion that people are beginning to sense that there is a problem with the continual use of some of our gadgets. I’m not saying we should all put down our gadgets and run off to a cave somewhere, because I know for a fact that a good number of these devices have aided in making us a lot more productive and as such are not going anywhere. What I am saying is that each of us needs to be aware of the devices we use, how they affect us, and build in periods where we allow ourselves to detox from their effects so that when we return to using them we feel refreshed and focused.
Some quick de-stressors:
On the phone: While talking, stand up and move around as this allows you to burn off a little excess energy.
On the computer: Work in a cubicle where you can’t move around freely? Once again stand up. Do knee-bends or bend over in intervals. These simple acts are like reset buttons that gets blood moving and refreshes your brain.
Lunch breaks: Take a short walk around the block or in the parking lot. Listen to soothing music while eating or have a quick chat with someone who listens that you can count on to be positive. Each act provides a new lease on life.
Your workspace: Place family photos or pictures of a place you plan to visit on your next vacation somewhere on your desk or wall. Each reminds you of your life outside the office and keeps in front of you positive images that can help motivate you.
I have continually emphasized creating what I call relaxation islands by taking small breaks of five to ten minutes where you allow yourself to get away from the problems of the project, people complaining about their gripes, or just the constant flow of emails, tweets, and phones ringing. The episode will provide a full list of situations you may encounter. Removing or altering one of two of them will not only help improve your health but also create more balance in your life.
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