Most people spend around 25 minutes each day traveling to work. Over the course of one year that could amount to more than 200 hours merely traveling to and from work.
Researchers have found that commuters experience significantly high levels of stress. However, they also point out that not all commuting is created equal, nor does stress have to play a part.
So, how can you make your commute less stressful?
#1 Relax prior to your commute
This includes getting up early enough to enjoy a healthy breakfast. If possible have a coffee, read the newspaper or a book, and start to prepare yourself for the day ahead.
#2 Check out traffic reports
Local radio stations normally report on accidents, routes to avoid, and weather warnings. Check this out before you leave home, as this will give you time to think of an alternative route, if necessary.
#3 Allow extra time
Leaving 10-15 minutes extra time will help you feel less stressed if unforeseen circumstances, such as an accident, or animals on the the road, do happen to slow you down.
#4 Try public transport
Driving yourself to work is much more stressful. This is because we feel more responsible for what happens around us.
So, by taking the bus, or train you won’t be so quick to blame yourself for delays, and therefore your journey will be less stressful.
#5 Consider carpooling
Carpooling can reduce stress, by giving you social interaction, and reducing your driving needs. Again this will depend on your personality, if you prefer your own space, it may not be the right option for you, especially if you carpool with someone who talks too much!
#6 Avoid uncertainties
Being uncertain about where you’re going is a major stress factor. If you have an important meeting or interview think about taking a train, bus, or taxi to get to your destination, rather than driving yourself there.
#7 Take the easiest route
Traffic that flows smoothly is much less stressful. If you have too many stop signs, traffic lights, and pedestrians on your normal route, can you take an alternative? Even if the alternative is longer, a smooth journey is less stressful.
#8 Avoid rush hour
Every rush hour is the same with long tail-backs, and frustrated or even irate drivers, but what’s the alternative?
If you live out of town maybe you could arrange for flexible working hours. Or how about avoiding the rush hour altogether by going to the gym straight after work, taking a walk at the local park, or going shopping?
#9 Drive calmly
Weaving, and darting around traffic rarely gains you more than a few minutes, but it does have a huge impact on stress levels. Instead, try driving calmly, without too many lane changes, increased speed, or rapid braking.
#10 Don’t overreact
Some drivers get extremely annoyed when someone passes them, when someone drives too slowly, or when someone forgets to signal a turn etc, but is it really worth getting stressed over?
#11 Breathe deeply
If you feel yourself getting tense, try some deep breathing. This should help to ease tension, causing you to feel more relaxed almost instantly.
#12 Mini massage
When stopping at traffic lights use the time to try out a mini massage.
With the thumb of one hand, massage the palm of the other hand by making small circles, working every area of the palm and fingers also. Switch and do the other hand. This is surprisingly very relaxing!
#13 Enjoy your surroundings
When you feel stress levels rising, try to focus on something positive. Look for something natural to captive your imagination, for example the green trees, a nearby river, or the blue sky.
#14 Learn a new skill
Research suggests that doing something else while driving can reduce stress. Why not learn a new language, listen to an educational podcast, or even listen to a novel using audible downloads? Just remember to concentrate on your driving too!
NB In some countries/states it is against the law to use headphones/earphones while driving, check with your local law authority.
#15 Listen to music
Crank up your stereo with whatever makes you feel happy; maybe it’s classical, gospel or even something upbeat. By listening to music you’ll be less likely to get angry as you travel.
#16 Organise supplies
If you find yourself getting delayed, plummeting blood sugars can be a major cause of increased stress levels. Keep a supply of dried fruit, nuts, bottled water, or crackers just in case. Also, make sure you have a mobile phone car charger, and enough fuel in your car.
Today I’m particularly stressed!!
When you feel stressful thoughts coming on, ask yourself, “Are these negative thoughts helping me in any way?” This is a good way of re-focusing your mind on what is really important.
How do you de-stress on your daily commute?
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