Job stress is one of the number one complaints of workers today. While workers know that work and stress normally go hand in hand, very few prefer to do something about it while in the workplace.

Self-care shouldn’t take a backseat to one’s tasks in the office, and learning how to de-stress at work is one of the things that workers should know how to do. When you start feeling overwhelmed or anxious during the day, it’s important to take a breather and do something about it, as stress can lead to health and mental problems such as hypertension and anxiety.

Here are 5 tips on how to de-stress at work.

Breathe

The simple act of breathing deeply can release tension and make your body feel relaxed. If you can’t head outdoors to get some fresh air, try adding a bit of aromatherapy to your deep-breathing exercises by placing a drop of essential oil on your hand, rubbing your hands together, and cupping your hands over your nose.

You can try Peace and Calming oil from Young Living ($33.77), or Healing Solutions Stress Relief Blend essential oil ($7.99), which is made with bergamot, patchouli, blood orange, ylang-ylang, and grapefruit oils. Both oils are good for clearing your head and uplifting your spirits.

Have a snack

Working on an empty stomach can cause your blood sugar levels to drop, making you cranky and irritable. Check out Jobs & Hire’s list of healthy snacks to have at the office to know the kind of foods you should munch on to keep your energy level up while in the office.

Doodle

Spend 10 minutes doodling or drawing, as this can help calm you down so you can focus later. You can have a special doodle or sketch pad for this purpose, such as the Canson Artist Series Universal Sketch Pad ($5.93). Get a few colored pens such as the 20-pack Staedtler Fineliner Pens ($18.12) or colored pencils, like the Prismacolor Premiere 24-Count Pencils ($13.27) and draw or sketch to your heart’s delight.

Go for a walk

Even a 10-minute walk can do wonders to relieve stress. Put on some flat shoes and head outdoors for a quick walk. Don’t forget to drink some water, as it’s very important to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Listen to music

Office chatter, the ping of inboxes, and the constant ringing of phones and other machines in the office can sometimes grate on one’s nerves. Wear headphones or ear buds and listen to your favorite music, or go to YouTube and check out playlists of soothing background instrumental music that won’t put you to sleep, such as this Ibiza Beach Lounge Del Mar Chillout Mix right here.