Commuting Stress & How You Can Overcome It

Long commutes have been linked to poorer productivity, and a UK research found that those who spend longer hours commuting are 33% more likely to suffer from depression and 12% more likely to suffer from work-related stress!

It�s the small things that make a big difference. Put some effort to make your commute comfortable and the traffic more bearable. You could slip into a pair of comfortable shoes or slippers while driving � a change of footwear signals to your body that it is now time to relax after a day of work. You could also include a small back or neck pillow to make your seat more comfortable.

A long commute of more than an hour may sometimes feel like a waste of time. If you�re taking public transport, why not spend that time catching up on some news or reading? Playing a few rounds of mind-stimulating games also helps you mentally prepare for the day.

It can be difficult to drown out all the noise that surrounds you while commuting � the honking of impatient drivers, the loud and constant chatter of a crowd � all this can easily add to your anxiety levels. While you may not be able to silence your environment, you can work on giving your mind some peace. Meditating isn�t just about chanting mantras, it can be as simple as breathing exercises to help soothe your body and mind. You can begin by clearing your mind, focusing on your breathing, using your imagination to place yourself in a place you feel at peace at, and tuning into a peaceful playlist to help you concentrate.

We�ve all experienced the rush of joy from listening to the opening tunes of our favourite song. In fact, the authors of the book �Your Playlist Can Change Your Life"  say that when you carefully curate a playlist, the tunes you select not only boosts your mood, they can also reduce anxiety, get you motivated, and even fight off depression and insomnia.

These are just some of the ways that can help you feel less stressed during your journey to and from work. Learning to embrace your daily commute and fighting the stress can keep you more motivated to take on the day, or have you looking forward to work the next day, which can lead to an increase in positivity and productivity � both of which are great outcomes!