COUNTERACTING THE EFFECTS OF NOISE

COUNTERACTING THE EFFECTS OF NOISE
To free yourself, at least temporarily, from the charged environment of daily noise, consider the following strategies:
Schedule time off. Take vacations and leave time when due. This provides an opportunity to step back and recharge.
Take short breaks during the day. One break in the morning and one in the afternoon will increase productivity.
Give yourself a change of pace. For those who live in rural areas, that might mean a vacation in the city. For people in the city, it could be the beach or the mountains.
Identify what helps you relax. A long commute to work may be a chance to either listen to music or an audio book or unwind. For others, a short commute may minimize the stress of navigating traffic.
Avoid situations at home that prove stressful at work. If your job requires constant phone time, limit phone calls in the evening.
Pursue hobbies and activities that are calming and enjoyable. Don't schedule white-water rafting if challenge and danger describe your daily work life.
Get to know yourself. Recognize your needs and know that it's OK to be different from the next person.
Source: Jo Carol Shaw-Franklin, director of Child and Adolescent Services for Valley Counseling Services in Warren