3 Easy Ways to De-Stress Quickly During the Workday

Still recovering from life on the road during my book tour and buried in emails, I’m feeling completely overwhelmed. Lately I’ve been intentional about adding simple de-stressing habits into my workday — they’re easy to do but make a huge difference. Below are a few practices that help me stay grounded; tell me which resonate with you or share any you use.

  1. Take mini breaks. After a productive stretch or a long meeting, I try to step away from my computer for 10–15 minutes. That might mean a short walk, a quick power nap, or preparing a simple snack. Intentionally leaving the screen gives my mind a reset before I jump into the next task. I’m often on my phone or laptop most of the day, so these small breaks are essential for preventing burnout.
  2. Keep a notebook nearby. I always carry a notebook with my ongoing to-do list, reminders to myself, half-formed ideas, and bullet points. Having a dedicated place to capture thoughts clears mental clutter and prevents things from slipping through the cracks.
  3. Release physical tension. Physical discomfort often amplifies mental stress. If I’m sore from a hard workout or stiff from sitting too long, the mental load feels heavier. A quick walk and some stretches can immediately lighten that feeling. When I have more time, I use a deep massage tool to work out tight spots and reset my body and mind.

Be kind to yourself this week — mental health matters just as much as physical health.