In last week’s blog post, we delved into the common phenomenon of people feeling stressed when returning to work after the summer break. We explored the reasons behind this stress and acknowledged that it’s a common experience. This week, we are looking more specifically at stress-relief strategies tailored to individuals who face long commutes as part of their return to the workplace.
This month’s question comes from Mike:
“Hi Kate, your post on the return-to-work stress resonated with me. One of the key reasons I feel anxious about returning to work is that I often find my commute very stressful. I take a train into central London and then I use the underground to get to my office. The train is often very busy, and you can feel other people’s stress with the push to get on the train and tube, etc. I arrive at work feeling tense and usually need 30 minutes to decompress! Do you have any advice around making my commute less stressful?”
My answer:
The return to work after a relaxing summer break can be daunting, especially for those who face long commutes as part of their daily routine. The stress of traffic, crowded public transport, and the daily grind can quickly take a toll on your mental and physical well-being. However, it is possible to turn your daily commute into a more peaceful and stress-free experience with the right strategies.
Other than suggesting Mike looks at less busy times to travel, I’m sharing some tools and techniques that are probably fairly obvious but it’s worth trying these first because they are easy to do and they can make a huge difference:
Mindful Commuting: Instead of letting your mind wander or focussing on what’s stressful, practice mindfulness by staying fully present in the moment. Focus on something specific and immerse yourself in it – for example, your breath or the scenery outside the window (when not driving). Observe your surroundings without judgment.
Or use your commute as an opportunity to meditate. There are many apps with guided meditations that you can listen to while travelling if you don’t know how to meditate on your own.
Audiobooks & Podcasts: Transform your commute into an opportunity for personal growth and entertainment by listening to audiobooks or podcasts. Choose topics that interest you, whether it’s self-help, educational, or simply entertaining. Engaging your mind with valuable content can make your commute feel productive and enjoyable.
Relaxing Music: Music has the power to uplift your mood and create a peaceful atmosphere. Create a playlist of your favourite relaxing music, choosing tracks that resonate with you – classical, instrumental, or ambient sounds can be particularly calming.
Breathing Techniques: Deep breathing exercises can be a lifesaver during stressful commutes. Practice deep inhales and slow, controlled exhales to calm your mind and reduce anxiety. A few minutes of focused breathing can reset your nervous system and help you approach your day with a clearer mind.
Plan Your Day: Use your commute time to plan your day ahead. Organise tasks, set priorities and mentally prepare for any challenges you may face at work. Think about how you want to feel and what you want to achieve. Having a clear plan can reduce stress by giving you a sense of control over your day, and it may also distract you from the stress of the commute.
Long commutes don’t have to be synonymous with stress and frustration. Whether you choose to practice mindfulness, immerse yourself in audiobooks, or simply enjoy relaxing music, the key is to make your commute an opportunity for selfcare and wellbeing.
Not only will strategies like these reduce your stress, but you’re also shifting your focus from the fact that you find the commute stressful. If you do this on a regular basis, you can even start to associate your commute with something you look forward to because of what you get to do during that time!
Kate x
