Top Ten Ways To De-stress

10 De-clutter. If your desk has too much stuff on it, this can actually hinder you from being able to deal with things as effectively as possible. A clear desk policy can bring with it a new and calmer approach to the day’s activity.

9 Research. Stress can affect pretty much anyone, but if it goes unchecked it can lead to health problems. So read up on the topic and equip yourself with all the necessary knowledge to help keep stress at bay.

8 Eat well. Taking time out to enjoy a nutritious lunch is always a welcome break and eating a good balanced diet will help you feel good and be better able to get on with all the tasks of the day

7 Breathe. Deep breathing can actually send messages to the brain that help you keep calm. It’s also good to be aware of your breathing and there are some excellent guides online from the NHS and healthcare providers on this topic

6 Take a screen break. It’s good to work hard and concentrate, but a few minutes out helps you to recharge and is also recommended for your eyes if you work at a computer.

5 Cut down on the caffeine. It’s an obvious stress reduction suggestion, but caffeine isn’t just in coffee – it’s present in tea and cola drinks too. You don’t have to cut out caffeine altogether, just keep it in check. Too much coffee and you’ll be less likely to feel relaxed.

4 Get some plants in your office. This might sound like a slightly wacky way of lowering stress levels, but Swedish environmental psychology experts did research into this a while back – and found that office plants bring health benefits, and among them was reduced stress.

3 Get a good night’s sleep. The advice your mum gave you as a kid about the power of a good night’s sleep holds true. Better rested, better able to take on the challenges of the day.

2 Prioritise. Taking a few moments to look at what needs done first, maybe even making a list of them in order, can make a big difference. It helps get the day in perspective by breaking it down into smaller and more manageable compartments.

1 Exercise. It’s a scientifically proven mood booster, it gets the feelgood chemicals – endorphins – flowing, and it also helps keep you fit. So if you’re feeling stressed, take some time out for swimming, running, or whatever exercise activity you like best.

Jen Jones writes on wellbeing and medical insurance for a number of UK websites.