Travel nursing has the potential to be one of the most exciting and liberating careers. I mean, getting paid to travel the country while doing what you love is pretty sweet! At the same time, it’s not unlikely that you’ll experience some stress along the way. Maybe you’re feeling a little homesick or you are having a little trouble adjusting to your new work environment. Have no fear; these small bothers can easily be taken care of. Here are five ways to easily reduce travel nurse stress and tension, and bring you back to appreciating your time in paradise.
5 Easy Ways to Reduce Travel Nurse Stress
1. Take a Walk
Yes, simple, but very helpful for easing anxiety. Exercise is a proven stress-management technique. It helps clear your mind and redirect your focus away from troublesome situations. It also contributes to protecting the heart from the destructive effects of stress. Not to mention you’ll be taking in the scenery of the beautiful location that you chose for your travel nursing assignment. So, whether you’re feeling the sand between your toes, seeing the city lights, or passing through some tall mountain pines, a nice stroll can be the key to relieving pressure.
2. Eat Well
Food plays a big role in our emotions. While junk food is satisfying and tasty, studies show that it can actually increase depression. Not to mention eating too much unhealthy food will just make you feel tired, cranky, and all-around gross. Healthy foods like whole grains, protein, fruits, and vegetables can boost your mood and give you enduring energy to take on any minor hassle. Foods that are particularly effective for stress reduction include almonds, blueberries, and salmon. Sure, a cookie probably sounds more appealing than a handful of nuts to most of us, but it’s important to think about which foods are going to give you lasting energy and nutrition.
3. Limit Electronic Use
In today’s day and age, many of us find it hard to go anywhere without our smartphones or tablets. Although technology is useful and entertaining, it’s never a bad idea to disconnect and go out and explore! Who needs the Internet or cell phones when you’re in a whole new place with so much to see? Oftentimes, our stress can come directly from these little electronic distractions. Whether it’s an angry text from your mom or an unwanted friend request on Facebook, one notification has the potential to put you in a sour mood. Cutting out electronics, to a degree, can help us live in the moment and appreciate it.
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4. Get Organized
As a travel nurse, you’re probably almost always on the go; it’s just the nature of the job! So, it’s a good idea to keep a planner or, at the very least, a to-do list. That way, you’ll keep your priorities straight and hopefully have some peace of mind. Not only that, but it’s not a bad idea to do some cleaning in your apartment or residence. It has been proven that the mere sight of clutter can put us on edge, so it may be time to tidy up your place! The organization will provide you with a sense of control and eliminate stress. I know for me personally, having a clean room is very therapeutic and satisfying!
5. Practice Healthy Sleep Habits
This is a very important way to reduce travel nurse stress. Getting too little sleep can leave us cranky, irritable, and sluggish. However, it’s also possible to get too much sleep. This is why it’s crucial to find a good balance that will leave you well rested and ready to take on the day. Establish bedtime routines that will help tell your brain it is time for sleep. Take a warm bath or read a book, and do not exercise within 3 hours of going to bed. Additionally, certain foods like peanuts, bananas, turkey, and different dairy products promote a good night’s sleep. However, you should not eat a large meal before bed in order to avoid indigestion or heartburn.
What are some ways that you reduce travel nurse stress? Let us know in the comments below!
