5 Natural Ways to Beat Workplace Stress

Punch up productivity with natural health products
Pro Tip: Keep Vitamin D in your purse or desk drawer. It’s important for so many body processes and is also linked to improved mood and increased problem-solving abilities.

Do more than Namaste the stress away

Stay calm on the job with probiotic supplements which help boost brain health by reducing anxiety and stress. Magnesium has the ability to help us to stay calm in stressful situations. We actually deplete our magnesium stores faster when we’re stressed, so consider supplementation to keep stress levels in check.

Pro Tip: Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin B6, like avocados, baked potatoes and bananas, have also been shown to help ease psychological stress since it’s used to make serotonin (a brain chemical that calms and relaxes).

Go beyond “deskercise”

Research continually shows the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle, and desk jobs have too many of us sitting for hours at a time. Pro Tip: Take advantage of the warmer weather by holding our meetings outside while walking. It’ll get you moving, and fresh air always seems to provide a new perspective.

Practice mindfulness at work

Mindfulness has been shown to help increase general awareness while decreasing stress levels. It’s a top health trend this year and can also be exercised in the workplace to combat overall stress. Set a timer set on your computer to remind you to stop and take three deep breaths throughout the day.

Pro Tip:  Start and end each workday thinking of three things that you’re grateful for. It will help to set the pace for your workday and your commute.

Start eating for energy

Carbs get a bad rap, but complex carbs like beans and legumes are actually high in fibre, which slows and stabilizes glucose absorption and reduces the risk of blood sugar spikes followed by subsequent crashes. Some studies even show that when stress-prone individuals are subjected to stress, they fare better eating a high-carbohydrate diet versus a high-protein diet. Eating more complex carbs can increase serotonin, reduce stress hormones, improve mental performance and enhance your overall mood.

Pro Tip: Don’t hate on carbs. Use them to your advantage.