Nursing is both a rewarding and demanding profession. Nurses are responsible for managing their patients’ physical and emotional needs daily while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Juggling all these responsibilities can be challenging, especially after a long and stressful shift. Here are five ways nurses can relax with strategies for de-stressing if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Get Some Fresh Air
Taking some time to get some fresh air after a stressful shift can be incredibly calming and restorative. It allows you to clear your mind, allowing you to prepare for future shifts. Going outside also allows you to reflect on your work as you breathe in the fresh, calming air around you.
Walk across the park or around your block, or do an outdoor jog which is great for your physical and mental well-being. If you don’t have time for a full walk or jog, simply stepping outside for at least 10 minutes will still provide therapeutic benefits.
Take Time for Exercise
It can be challenging to find the motivation to squeeze in some exercise after a long day. However, scheduling a regular workout for yourself helps reduce stress and boost your energy.
Exercise releases endorphins which help improve your mood as well as your cognitive function and energy levels and reduce stress.
Getting your heart rate up will leave you refreshed and ready for your next shift, whether through yoga, dancing around your living room, or running a few laps around your neighborhood park. Remember to take things slow and take a break when needed. Overworking your body will do more harm than any good.
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is key for nurses looking to make it through a hectic and stressful shift. Mental and physical health is vital for anyone working in an intense environment, but for nurses on their feet all day, getting at least seven hours becomes essential. Sleep gives the body a chance to repair from the wear and tear of a busy workday, so try your hardest to grab at least seven hours of quality sleep each night.
Additionally, try setting aside 30 minutes before bedtime each night dedicated solely to relaxation to calm down before sleep. Adding CBD products into your routine can also improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety levels. Vaping is an effective way to get CBD into your system quickly and effectively, so consider buying a high quality CBD vape device and oil if you’re looking for quick stress relief.
Weed decarboxylation, a crucial process in activating the psychoactive compounds in cannabis, plays a significant role in the creation of CBD products. Understanding this process can empower users to make informed choices when incorporating CBD into their routines, whether through vaping or other consumption methods, for enhanced relaxation and stress relief.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce stress levels when practiced regularly. Taking 10 minutes each day to practice one of these techniques will help you build up your resilience to cope with the stresses of nursing more effectively.
Eating Healthy
Eating healthy meals can be an important coping mechanism for nurses after a stressful shift. Healthy eating is essential for protecting and boosting your immune system and is a significant self-care source. Comfort food may provide temporary solace in times of difficulty; however, nutritious and balanced meals can play an even larger role in providing nurses with the necessary nutrients to fight fatigue from long shifts.
Eating nutrient-packed meals allows nurses to take care of themselves and feel empowered. High-fiber foods like fruits and herbs also provide an energizing boost that helps you tackle any challenges that come your way.
Stress is an inevitable part of nursing, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. Adding some of these ways nurses can relax into your daily routine can help you manage the stresses of work more effectively. Taking care of yourself is essential for maintaining balance in both your professional and personal life. With a little effort and dedication, you’ll be able to make time for yourself and reduce stress levels in no time.