How may your workspace affect your stress?
Not all stress is bad – sometimes we need some stress in order to perform better in the moment, but you have to be able to switch that stress response off. Elevating your workspace design can help.SCIENCE SAYS:
The temporary release of hormones like cortisol, adrenaline and noradrenaline can help us adapt to stress, but a prolonged response can result in allostatic load, physiological and psychological wear and tear from chronic stress.WAYS TO BEGIN:
- Be mindful about flow – organization and minimal clutter correlate with decreased exhaustion and stress.
- Listen to your senses – lower noise levels, calm lighting, comfortable temperature and feelings of being in nature help switch off your stress response.
- Amp up your environment – good air quality, comfortable furniture and easy options for healthy eating support brain-healthy habits.
- Maintain boundaries – a dedicated workspace is ideal, but if your workspace is shared or changing, take steps to exert control over the environment where you work.
