When was the last time you put your body and mind first, hmm? Getting caught up in a deadline can be all-consuming, but regular little acts of self-care are important to help bring the focus back to your thoughts and feelings. Have you not noticed the back pain that’s been slowly getting worse this week? The feelings of stress and overwhelm building as your impending deadline looms? Fitting in a self-care routine is difficult when you’re busy, but luckily there are some easy things you can do without even leaving your desk that can help to improve your mood, relieve stress and have you feeling more like yourself again in just a few hours.
Create a self-care playlist
Music is good for the soul, and has been proven time and time again to have such a profound effect on our mood and productivity. Take 10 minutes to search for your favourite guided meditations, calming music to relax you, instrumental tunes for focus, and even some inspirational TED talks or YouTube videos from people you admire who can perk you up throughout the day. Play these in the background while you work and notice your positivity levels start to spike.
Make space for relaxation
If your desk is a mess and you’re feeling stressed, create a space of calm and relaxation by taking an hour to clear up both the physical space around you and your computer folders. Getting rid of the digital litter on your desktop is a great way to improve your mood in minutes, feel all-round more organised, and clear your mind to allow you to tackle the big things on your list. Also, try introducing a candle to your desk with scents like chamomile, bergamot or ylang-ylang, as the aromatherapeutic properties of these scents can help to de-stress and calm the mind. Why not decorate your desk with inspiring books and motivational quotes to energise you during your work day? Take time to help make yourself feel uplifted and productive, and you’ll start to see the difference.
Strike a chair pose
Sitting all day, especially if you are in the wrong position or an uncomfortable chair, can not only cause pain but sometimes irreversible damage if it goes on for too long. It’s so important to get up and move around throughout the day to keep aches and pains at bay, but if you’re struggling to hit a deadline and you don’t have time to do your daily jog or pilates class, then try some simple yoga moves at your desk to stretch out and keep those joints moving. We love this video by Yoga With Adriene!
Schedule in fun Skype meetings
When it feels like you’re on a never-ending treadmill of meetings and deadlines, break up the day with a fun video call with a friend. It’s a good chance to catch up with your accountability partner or freelance friends about the creative projects you’re all working on, or even just to talk about the latest episode of your favourite TV show. Either way, take some time out of your work day to Skype your friend, chill out, have a chat, and take your mind off of the stress for a while.
Spa day while you work
This may take a little more effort to set up, but it’s the little acts of self-care that really make all the difference to your day. Why not take a few minutes to apply your favourite face mask, or fill a basin with warm water and essential oils to soak your feet in while you work? Take the time to treat yourself and believe that your wellbeing is as important as any deadline – it might make work that little bit more luxurious for the day!
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