When it comes to managing stress at work – our adrenal glands deserve our attention. Why? Our adrenal glands are our one of our most important organs in the body. They sit atop of our kidneys, and are responsible for balancing our energy hormones. Cortisol is a hormone our adrenal gland releases generally throughout the day, but especially when we become stressed. It is a helpful hormone in emergency situations because it keeps us sharp, awake, on edge. But when cortisol is over secreted due to chronic stress, it creates problems. Weight gain, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, poor immunity, all can be a result of too much cortisol in the system. So how can we keep our cortisol levels down at work? Here are some tips for managing stress at work by keeping our adrenal glands in check:
Talking and laughing with coworkers, having lunch outdoors,taking a break to meditate or stretch, or trading a shoulder rub are all helpful. Even just taking a few deep breaths will trigger a cortisol reducing response from the brain. Exercise eliminates excess cortisol in the blood, so,again, try taking a walk during the day, or at least after work. Consider having one on one meetings walking outside vs. sitting in an office. Eliminating coffee (try green tea instead) will relax the adrenal glands. As will relaxing when you get home and getting enough sleep.
