10 Ways to De-Stress

Do you feel trapped by your job? Is the day-to-day grind weighing you down? Here's how to break out of a rut at work and start living your life now.

1. MAKE YOUR JOB WORK FOR YOU
"Don't let work rule your life," says Susie Mantell, a stress-relief expert. Set aside time in your date book for social events one or two times a week, and commit to them as you would any other project.

2. DEFINITELY DO LUNCH
Deprive your body of food and it will break down on you under pressure, says Priscilla Marotta, Ph.D., author of Power & Wisdom: The New Path for Women. At least have some soup, or grab a slice of veggie pizza on the go. Also, buy low-fat snacks, such as yogurt or trail mix, that you can munch on to keep energy up throughout the day.

3. TAKE MINI TIME-OUTS
Tension can build up quickly, so take two or three minutes every hour or two to relax. Get up, walk around, take deep breaths, or chat with a coworker. People who take breaks are more productive at work and more satisfied with their jobs.

4. GET A CHANGE OF SCENERY
During your lunch break, visit a park, flower shop, or pet store to recharge and take your mind off work.

5. REMIND YOURSELF WHO YOU ARE OUTSIDE OF YOUR JOB
Hang family photos, postcards, or seashells from your last trip to the beach by your desk. "Work is only part of who you are, not all of who you are," says Mantell.