We live in a hectic world!  To keep pace, the average worker must undergo stress to get the job done, as well as bearing up against the morning and evening rush hours, which  bring insufferable traffic.  Few tasks qualify as less stressful than desiring to get from A to B quickly while trapped in slow or no moving lines. At day’s end, the stressed out worker cannot wait to get home and relax — often with a comforting drink of spirits to calm oneself.  Departing earlier in the morning or staying later in the afternoon remains an unacceptable option to skirt the twice daily rat race.

So, what is a body to do?   The American journalist, Sydney J. Harris (1917—1986), took a observant view respecting when to relax:

—“The time to relax is when you don’t have time for it.”

During the snarled commute, one could listen to soothing music, engage in a book on tape, or transfer the morning shower singing on the road to take one’s mind off the snail paced commute.  Upon reflection, Harris’ words make a lot of sense, for at times our life seems like juggling multiple puff balls in a stiff wind.  Scheduling a break to relax, or simply breathing deep a few times in a serene setting, will provide needed energy and focus to continue. 

The stress of the day does not end with the commute to work, for unexpected problems or tight deadlines add pressure to the day.  Dr Joyce Brothers (1927—2013) provided some cogent advice:

—“ No matter how much pressure you feel at work, if you could find ways to relax for at least five minutes every hour, you’d be more productive.”

One might challenge Dr Joyce’s prescription with “How can I take a break during a crisis?”  Take a walk to the water cooler, do a quick turn at the gym, inhale a few deep breaths to slow things down.  An old Aesop Fable conclusion:   

—“A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.” 

One of the ubiquitous Chinese proverbs adds:  

—“ Tension is who you think you are; relaxation is who you are.”  

Lastly, I refer to an oft quoted sentiment, attributed to professional golfer, Walter Hagen (1892—1969.):

—“Stop and smell the roses along the way,”