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- Exercise at least three times a week. Running, weight lifting, bike riding-anything that gets your heart and lungs working burns off stress Exercise releases endorphins that boost your mood and it dissipates built-up stress that otherwise leads to burnout.
- Make time for a hobby. An art class, cooking, reading, sewing-anything that's not part of the regular grind and that helps you relax will balance the things that wear you down.
- Practice breathing exercises. "Just breathe!" Yes, it's an old cliche, but there is a grain of truth behind every cliche. Deep breathing gives your body a boost of oxygen and it releases tension in your abdomen around your heart.
- Get away. Take a walk at lunch, and don't take work home. Leave the office at the office. At home, find a time and place where you can relax and unwind. Even 15 minutes of relaxation can relieve stress.
- Laugh. Sometimes it helps to look at a situation and just laugh. If that fails, read the jokes that your uncle's cousin's best friend is e-mailing you three times a week. Pick a comedy next time you go to the movies or surf channels.
- Take up yoga or tai chi. These disciplines have a restorative effect and are sure burnout busters.
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Burnout can creep up on you slowly. Watch for the warning signs and stay ahead of it. Your heart, family and employer will thank you.
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