5 Simple Ways to Feel Less Stressed Every Day

Practical, powerful habits to support your wellbeing at work

Work stress is a reality for many of us — but how we manage our energy, mindset, and environment can make a big difference in how we feel each day.

These five science-backed practices are easy to integrate into your daily routine. Whether you’re working from the office or at home, these small changes can have a big impact.

1. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Your Time

Emotional Wellbeing

Time management is important — but managing your energy is what helps you stay grounded and productive.

Try this:

• Start your morning with a quick energy check-in:
  ✔️ What energises me today?
  ❌ What might drain me?

• Plan your schedule accordingly — do high-energy tasks when you feel most alert, and give yourself short breaks between intense tasks.

• After something draining, take a stretch, a few deep breaths, or go for a short walk to reset.

📓 Tip: Keep a “feel good” log of tasks that energise you vs. those that don’t — and plan your day around that insight.

2. Move More (Even at Your Desk)

Physical Wellbeing

Sitting for long hours can cause stiffness, brain fog, and fatigue — but you don’t need a full workout to feel better. Just a few mindful movements can go a long way.

Try this:

• Join a lunchtime yoga or Pilates class — no change of clothes needed!

• Stretch your neck, shoulders, and back every hour

• Walk or cycle part of your commute

• Take a walking break between meetings

🧘 Micro-movements throughout the day can boost energy, circulation, and mental clarity.

3. Spread Kindness at Work

Social Wellbeing

Kindness is a proven stress-reliever. It increases oxytocin and dopamine levels — your natural “feel-good” chemicals — and strengthens social connections.

Try this:

• Write a thank-you note to a colleague

• Offer to help someone with a small task

• Surprise a teammate with a coffee or encouraging message

🧠 Research shows that kindness benefits both the giver and the receiver — and even those who witness it. It’s contagious and creates a ripple effect.

4. Shift Your Mindset with One Simple Question

Mindset Reset

When work feels overwhelming, it's easy to get stuck in a spiral of "If only I had more time..."

Instead, shift your mindset from stuck to action by asking:

“What’s one small step I can take today?”

Or:

“What’s one task I can delegate or delay?”

This shift brings your focus back to what’s possible right now, helping you build momentum and feel more in control.

🧠 Even a small win can reduce stress and improve focus.

5. Step Outside for a Fresh Air Reset

Overall Wellbeing

Nature has a calming, grounding effect on both the mind and body. Even a few minutes outside can make a huge difference to your mood, clarity, and focus.

Try this:

• Step outside for a 5-minute fresh air break

• Take your lunch in a nearby green space

• Suggest a walking meeting for your next team catch-up

🌿 Fresh air inspires fresh ideas — and natural light helps regulate your circadian rhythm and energy levels.

🌟 Final Thought

You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine to feel better. Just start with one or two of these practices, and build from there.

Remember — small, mindful actions add up over time.
They help you feel more energised, more present, and less stressed — every single day.