Quick Tip: 5 Surefire Stress Busters for Freelancers

We asked five freelance copywriters for their #1 tip for reducing stress. Here’s what they suggested:

1. Sit or lie down, close your eyes, and inhale slowly and deeply from your diaphragm for 5 counts. Hold your breath for 5 counts. Exhale slowly and completely for 5 counts. Repeat 10 times.
2. Stretch! Particularly your neck and shoulder muscles. Slowly turn your head to the left, right, up, and down. Then drop your shoulders and hold your right arm out in front of you. Use your left arm to gently pull your right arm across your chest and hold this position for 15 seconds. Repeat with the other arm. Breathe deeply during all of these movements.
3. Pet your dog or cat. Studies have shown that people who do this regularly live longer – so it's got to have a calming effect on your stress levels.
4. Take a mini-break from work. Put on a relaxation tape or some soft music. Sit back, close your eyes, and do nothing but listen. If you set your kitchen timer for 10 minutes, you'll be able to fully relax and not worry about the time.
5. Give yourself a deep dose of negative ions. Unless you live near a free-running river or waterfall, the best way to do this is to take an invigorating shower. The combination of tingling, massaging water and the negative ions moving water produces will invigorate you and make you feel eager to face your next round of work.

Most important, however, is to remind yourself why you're doing what you're doing – working so hard to become a professional copywriter – and acknowledge that being in a position to work from home and manage your own schedule is worth the effort you’re putting into it.