How to cope with stress and learn to take a break

If you've landed on this article, you know you have a problem with either stress, taking a break, or worse, both.

It's a worrying trend, with 86 per cent of Singapore adults (out of a surveyed 1001) reporting that they are stressed. Of course, that's from a small amount of data, but ask around, and you'll be hard-pressed to find someone who has not experienced any stress or expressed difficulty taking a break from work.

Here's a gentle reminder that taking a break when you're really stressed (or even before you get to that stage) is essential for your mental and physical well-being. There are more than enough articles and literature, both online and physical, touting the dangers of stress and the benefits of living a more stress-free life, so here are some concrete steps you can follow to effectively take a break and recharge.

1) Acknowledge your stress

Take the time to sit with yourself and recognise that you are feeling stressed. It seems like the easiest thing to do, but in our haste to get our life in order and shuttle from task to task – our emotions tend to take a backseat and get neglected. The first step is to sit yourself down, give space for that feeling, and realise that you need to take a break.

2) Identify what recharges you

The way we recharge differs from person to person. Some love going for a massage, some pamper themselves with a luxurious spa, some recharge with wonderful meals, while some need quiet time away from stimulations to relax without distractions. Identify what your heart wants you to do at Step 1, and then...

Relax with these activities

3) Breathe deeply

Practise deep breathing exercises to calm your mind and body. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this several times. If you can, engage in mindfulness or meditation by focusing on the present moment and letting go of worries about the past or the future.

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4) Take a walk or move your body

If you can, take a short and slow walk outside or around the neighbourhood. Physical activity can help reduce stress and clear your mind; and it doesn't even need to be intense! Gentle stretches or light exercises are enough to release tension in your body.

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5) Listen to calming music

I tend to keep soothing music or nature sounds as white noise while I work, making it easy to transition into unwinding time. Invest in a good speaker, and let your brain enjoy the sound waves!

6) Read or pick up a hobby

Engage in a hobby or read something enjoyable to shift your focus away from stress, while keeping your mind active when learning something new!

I picked up pottery in the middle of the pandemic, and have continued as a hobbyist to this day. Setting aside one day a week to do something that I enjoy helps to ground me and takes me away from whatever might have happened in the week. I usually emerge from the session slightly tired, but mentally recharged.

Check out pottery classes here

...or find your own groove.

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7) Laugh

Watch a funny video or talk to a friend who makes you laugh. Laughter can be a great stress reliever.

8) Drink water and eat a healthy snack

Stay hydrated and nourish your body with a healthy snack to support your well-being.

9) Talk to someone

If you need to talk about what's stressing you out, reach out to a supportive friend, family member, or colleague. Luckily, seeing a therapist is also normalised now, allowing people to work through their feelings into emotionally healthy adults.

Remember, taking a break doesn't mean you're lazy or unproductive; it's an essential part of self-care and can help you return to your tasks with a clearer mind and renewed energy.