1. Try meditating or breathing exercises
If you’re trying to figure out how to relax, meditation will probably be one of the first options people give you. It can be very calming and help you reset yourself. There are many apps and videos available to teach you how to meditate. Even doing something simple like paying attention to how you are breathing can have a similar effect. This doesn’t have to be something that takes a long time, either. Stopping for a minute to breathe can make a world of difference.
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Listen to music
It has been proven that music affects our mood. Taking time each day to listen to calming tunes can actually reduce stress. It is an easy thing to work into your routine, too, no matter how busy your schedule. Just listen to a few of your favorite songs on your commute to and from your dialysis nursing job. It doesn’t necessarily have to be soft music, either. Whatever helps you destress is the right choice.
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Stay connected
Being a dialysis nurse takes a lot of time and energy. It can be easy to use all your free time to sleep, but this is hazardous to your mental health. Humans are social creatures. We need to stay connected with each other in order to thrive. Make sure you are hanging out with friends and family outside of work.
You’ve probably heard the phrase “laughter is the best medicine,” and it’s true. Finding things to laugh about, whether alone or with friends, can actually boost your mood. Keeping up with friends doesn’t have to become a source of stress, either. A weekly phone call or simple text can be enough to know you’re thinking of each other and boost each other’s spirits.
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Exercise
This may seem like the opposite of what you want to do. As a dialysis nurse, you are likely on your feet for most of the day. Exercise is the last thing on your mind when you get home. It has been proven, however, that exercising can improve not only your physical but also your mental health. Even something simple like going for a walk or doing a few yoga poses can get your endorphins pumping. Staying healthy in general is important to self-care. This means eating well, drinking water, and getting enough sleep.
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Practice thankfulness
One last simple way to decompress: be grateful for what you have. It can be easy to get caught up in the day to day and forget what brought you to dialysis in the first place. Whether you have your dream job, love where you live, or just had a really good cup of coffee this morning, focus on things to be thankful for each and every day. You’ll have a more positive attitude and be less worried.
Looking for a new dialysis job?
Maybe it’s your workplace that is causing you a lot of stress. In that case, you could try a new one. New Directions Staffing can help you find a position as a dialysis nurse almost anywhere in the country. Call (888) 654-1110 for more information.
