There are days in a dental practice where everything that can go wrong, does. Patients no show, patients arriving late and demanding to be seen, emergencies, equipment failure, and staff no shows can all happen on any given day (and many do!). Stress can sneak up on everyone from time to time. The problem here is that too much stress can trigger emotional eating, alter your mood, as well as impact your health in the long run. It may also make you and others short-tempered which will only exacerbate a stressful day.  Here are some simple tips you can do throughout the day to help reduce you and your staff reduce stress and that surely will make for a happier work environment! 

Take a deep breath 

It is the easiest and best way to de-stress yourself. This process can be done in two simple steps, and it will elevate your mood and reduce stress.

• For this, you need to breath-in through your nose slowly. Make sure to fill up your lungs entirely.
• Then start breathing out through your mouth slowly.

Repeating the steps mentioned above rhythmically 5 to 10 times will make you feel more relaxed and ready to take on the next challenge!

Do 1-minute meditation

 

Meditating brings numerous health benefits. Studies have shown that meditation has the potential to reduce the symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety. However, when you’re busy, it is hard to manage but who says you need to a lot of time? So, this is where 1-minute meditation comes into action.

You can take a 60-second break while repeating a mantra or deep breathing to clear your mind. This micro meditation technique can easily help you to reset and relax.

Express gratitude

Experiencing stress can lead to negative health effects. However, shifting your thoughts towards positivity can let you redirect negativity even before it impacts your health.

Make sure to spare a few moments every day to list out the things you are thankful for. Yes, the patient in the chair might be difficult and it seems like every piece of equipment is broken but think of the things you are grateful in life. Think of your family, your good health, and the ability to be a productive member of society. This will let you stay focused on your life’s positive part and keep the negative energy from you.

Take a short break

If you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious, it’s ok to take a short break, even if the break is for a few minutes. However, the key here is to identify when you need to take that break. It’s easy for us to get caught up in our routines and work, and as a result, we forget to take some time for ourselves. 

While on break, try to avoid checking your phone or watching TV during this break. Instead, use this time to stay in the present and settle yourself in a true state of relaxation. Just relax and let your mind rest!

Take a walk around

If you sit behind the desk throughout the day, then this is the best thing you can do to relax. By taking a short walk even around your office can let your brain release endorphins that will subdue anxiety, improve mood, and make you relaxed with ease. Even clinical staff can step outside, breathe the fresh air, and take a few minutes to reset.

 

It doesn’t take much time de-stress throughout the day. Take a few minutes out to relax and you’ll notice a difference in your energy and demeanor even when it’s uber stressful!