10 offbeat stress-relief ideas for work and after your shift

How many times have you complained about stress only to have someone make the half-hearted suggestion “Go get a massage.” Not that massages aren’t great, but who has the time?

There have to be other options out there for nurses to shake off stress! We asked experts and you, our readers, for some great ideas for beating stress, and your ideas, from a good whine to creative cocktail creations, were stellar. Here is a list of the 10 most offbeat answers!

DURING YOUR SHIFT

1. Kick some butt!
Exercise is hands down one of the best ways to curb aggressive impulses when stress starts to pile up. Steal away three minutes at the nurse’s station to try this energy-burning move:

You may want to do this near a desk or wall if you fear losing your balance. Stand straight with feet a few inches apart. Slowly lift your right foot, bringing your heel to your buttocks, then slowly lower it back down. Repeat 10 to 15 times and then do the same with the other leg.

If judgmental coworkers ask what the heck you’re doing, calmly tell them: ”I’m obviously kicking butt. And yours may be next.”

Next: Find a patch of grass–>