April is Stress Awareness Month
It’s the perfect excuse to pause, talk honestly about something we all deal with and reset.
We asked the Paperstone team how they deal with stress and this list of simple-to-do, stress relievers is the result. We’d love to hear how you manage stress – please share your tips to hello@paperstone.co.uk
1. When everything feels like ‘a lot’… start with a list
Ever feel like your to-do list is living rent-free in your brain?
One of the simplest ways to take back control is to get it all out of your head and onto paper (or a screen).
Writing a to-do list helps you:
- Stop the ‘I’ve forgotten something’ feeling
- See everything clearly
- Prioritise what actually matters
And ticking things off is a deeply satisfying, instant mood boost.
2. Don’t fight your brain – work with it
We’ve all been there: staring at a task, re-reading the same sentence 12 times, getting nowhere.
Sometimes the best thing you can do? Step away.
If you’re not in the right mindset, try:
- Switching to a different task
- Doing some light planning or research instead
- Coming back to it when your brain is ready
You’ll often get it done faster and better. Productivity isn’t about forcing it – it’s about timing it right.
3. Fresh air = instant reset
Never underestimate the power of stepping outside.
Whether it’s for:
- A short walk
- Sitting in the sun for a few minutes
- A quick breather between meetings
Fresh air is amazing for your mind and giving you an instant energy boost.
4. Multi-tasking is a myth
Trying to juggle five things at once might feel productive, but it usually has the opposite effect.
Focusing on one task at a time:
- reduces overwhelm,
- improves quality of work, and
- helps you actually finish things.
5. Move your body, change your mood
You don’t need a full gym session to feel better (although bonus points if you do get to the gym).
Simple movement works wonders. Try:
- A brisk 5-minute walk
- Stretching between tasks
- Pacing while thinking
- Or, if you’re lucky enough to have a sit-stand desk – stand up!
And remember – the least appealing time to exercise is typically when you need it the most.
6. Swap out (some of) the caffeine
We love coffee. We really do. But too much of it is not always your stress levels’ best friend.
Try switching it up with herbal tea now and then:
- Calming blends can help you unwind
- Less caffeine = fewer jitters
It’s another example of a small change that can make a big difference.
7. Try box breathing
If your stress spikes suddenly, this is a great go-to breathing technique. Simply picture drawing the 4 sides of a box as you:
- Inhale for 4 seconds
- Hold for 4
- Exhale for 4
- Hold for 4
Repeat a few times and you’ll feel your body & mind start to settle. It’s quick, discreet, and surprisingly effective.
8. Take your lunch break
Step away from your desk. Even if it’s just for 10–15 minutes:
- Change your environment
- Give your brain a break
- Avoid the “working non-stop” spiral
Surprisingly, you’ll come back more focused – not behind.
9. Try the “step counting” trick
One of our favourite quirky tips from the team… Count your steps as you walk to the kettle.
It sounds simple, but:
- It shifts your focus
- Clears mental clutter
- Sometimes makes you forget what you were stressed about in the first place
Worth a try.
10. Get creative or zone out
Sometimes the best way to deal with stress is to not think about it for a bit.
Creative or mindful activities help you reset (as well as being fun to do). Try:
- Drawing, writing, or doodling
- Listening to music
- Letting your mind wander
It’s not wasted time – it’s recovery.
Final thoughts
Although stress is normal – staying stuck in ‘stress-mode’ doesn’t have to be.
Most of these tips aren’t big, dramatic changes. They’re small, everyday habits that might just help you feel more calm and in control. Here’s a quick recap…
- When everything feels like “a lot”, start with a list
- Don’t fight your brain – work with it
- Fresh air = instant reset
- Multitasking is a myth
- Move your body, change your mood
- Swap out (some of) the caffeine
- Try box breathing
- Take your lunch break
- Try the “step counting” trick
- Get creative or zone out
So this Stress Awareness Month, pick one or two to try and let us know how you get on.
Recent Comments