The workaday week can be gruelling, but you must take time to de-stress: Your heart depends on it.
People who’ve suffered a heart attack and return to super-stressful jobs are at serious risk for a second one. Canadian researchers tracked 972 people for six years after their first attack. When workers returned to a high-stress job, their risk of having another attack doubled after two years compared with less-stressed workers.
Having a plan in place to deal with tension is important for all of us, says Dr Randal Thomas, a cardiologist at the Mayo Clinic, USA: “Exercise is the greatest stress reducer we have.” It’s also the best way to prevent stress in the first place.
Do jumping jacks, take a walk or try an under-the-desk pedal exerciser. If you’ve had an attack, think seriously about entering a cardiac rehab program, says Dr Thomas. It can help you learn to cope and cut your risk of dying from a repeat attack by up to 30 percent.
Work Stress SOS
Many of my heart surgery patients have told me that work stress had a role in their illness. How to cope:
> Don’t Stew
Instead, take it out on a small ball you keep in your desk. Squeeze it, throw it in the air, or even take it outside and bounce, throw and catch it until you feel better.
> Mini Massage
Take your shoes off and rub your feet, bending your toes, ankles and arches to ease tension. Or massage your hands, focusing on the highly sensitive tips of your fingers.
> Seek Peace
Take time to regain perspective, whether you close your door or go outside for a few minutes.
> Find Joy
Put flowers at your desk or get a small fountain to create the soothing sound of running water.
Is Your Job Killing You? 
