We all experience stress; it’s our body’s way of responding to demands placed on our physical, mental, or emotional resources. Essentially, stress is triggered by stressors in our lives, which can be either positive or negative, though negative stressors are more common.

When we’re stressed, our brain releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, which activate the body’s “fight or flight” response. This reaction can lead to heightened anxiety and panic, an increased heart rate, and elevated blood pressure. These hormones prepare us to tackle challenges by boosting alertness and channeling energy to our muscles, helping us either confront a threat or escape from it.

If you’re feeling stressed, here are some strategies to help manage it:

Managing Stress at Work

Work-related stress is common, whether due to time constraints or high expectations. To alleviate stress at work:

• Organise Your Time: Plan your day to prioritise tasks and set achievable goals.
• Take Breaks: Avoid staying at your desk continuously. Regular breaks, including lunch, are crucial for maintaining health and productivity.
• Set Goals: Establish both short-term and long-term goals to give your work purpose and direction.
• Change Your Environment: If possible, work from a different location or workspace to refresh your routine.

If you’re really not happy in your job look around for something new and consider what skills you have. Websites like culinaryschools.org can help if you want to get into a culinary job, or you can job search sites like Indeed.com or LinkedIn.

Play Online Games

Engaging in online games can be an effective stress reliever by diverting your mind from real-world pressures. Culinary school also offer a variety of games to keep you entertained, and provide a mental escape. I particularly enjoy Pizza Game Chef where you act as a pizza chef fulfilling customer orders. The game is quite fast paced so it means your brain doesn’t have time to think about anything else.

Pamper Yourself

Treating yourself with some self-care can be a great way to reduce stress.

Pampering means different things to different people—it could be a relaxing shower, a hair mask, or a full-on spa experience.

Find what makes you feel good and make time for it regularly. I love having a big bubble bath while watching a trashy TV show.

Exercise

Exercise is a key component of a healthy lifestyle and a powerful way to combat stress. While it might not always be appealing, the benefits are significant.

Physical activity boosts endorphins, the brain’s natural mood enhancers, and can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Research shows that exercising for 20 minutes, three times a week, can improve mental well-being and reduce stress. Additionally, regular exercise can improve sleep, helping you manage stress more effectively.

Incorporating these practices into your routine can help you manage stress and improve your overall well-being.