It’s easy to fall prey to a whirlwind of work responsibilities and deadlines. Anyone who has ever held a job would agree that they have experienced work-related stress, one way or another. Stress can be overwhelming. When it does, it can cause adverse effects on our job performance and worse, our health. Fortunately, workplace stress is preventable and manageable. This is where the concept of Zen comes in. Zen is a state of calm attentiveness or mindfulness. When we practice Zen, we devote our attention to the present, withdrawn from worries and tension.
Here are ways Zen can benefit you:
1. It improves memory.
When you attempt to pour your energy into entertaining too many thoughts at once, it’s easy to lose concentration. It then becomes difficult to commit information to memory. Zen tones down the noise and boosts focus.
2. It improves the ability to plan and organize.
When your brain is in a constant state of engagement and disengagement, you lose your sense of order. Zen facilitates mental clarity. When clarity is at play, priority setting and an efficient approach to work becomes second nature.
3. It encourages positivity.
Stress leads to a panic-ridden, negative state of mind. When we begin to see challenging situations and heavy workload from a pessimistic point of view, it takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being. On the opposite side of the spectrum, being positive and stress-free keeps you alert and well-equipped for any tasks and challenges thrown your way.
4. It enhances creativity.
Creative ideas don’t flow smoothly when you’re agitated and overthinking. The state of calmness you experience being Zen puts you within a healthy, creative, working space where thoughts, insights, and imagination thrive.
5. It increases your emotional quotient.
Zen makes you increasingly aware of your emotions and helps you empathize with the people around you. In the workplace, this sets you up for better decision making, stronger colleague relationships, and ultimately, a healthier working culture.
How can we practice Zen?
1.Recognize and accept your stressors and negative emotions.
The first step to achieving mindfulness is by acknowledging what’s causing you to be distracted and stressed. This helps in recognizing your thought patterns and in coming up with helpful actions and reactions.
2. Disconnect.
Spend a part of your day completely detached from work- turn off your phone and indulge in an activity that you find relaxes and de-stresses you.
3. Practice self-care.
Self-care is the integration of your physical and mental happiness with your daily routine. Be it a cup of tea during a hump day, a healthy lunch, or redesigning your workspace to make it more comfortable.
4. Do yoga.
Yoga is Zen in art form. It’s the exercise of calmness, mindfulness, and relaxation through breathing techniques, meditation, and movement. Start your Zen journey with these yogi-approved essentials.
Live a simple, worry-free, tranquil life by living Zen. A Zen lifestyle inspires mental & physical strength, creativity, and positivity. What part of your everyday routine reminds you of Zen? We’d love to hear from you!
Sources:
15 Practical Ways To Find Your Zen At Work.https://www.executive-connections.ie/practical-ways-find-zen-work/
Coping with Stress at Work.https://www.apa.org/topics/healthy-workplaces/work-stress.
How Is Zen Connected to Yoga.https://isha.sadhguru.org/us/en/wisdom/article/zen-and-yoga.