Annual Enrollment is right around the corner and everyone in our industry (including us) is ramping up and working hard to ensure a smooth and successful AE.

It happens every year, but no matter how early you start prepping it always seems like your to-do list could reach Hawaii (palm trees, ocean breeze, a large daiquiri…). Instead of daydreaming about your next beach vacation, it’s important to keep self-care on the top of that to-do list. If you don’t take care of YOU during this busy season, your employees could be the ones to pay the price.

Breathe, just breathe.

When we’re under pressure and stressed out or nervous, our blood pressure spikes. This is known as the “fight or flight” response and helped our ancestors survive lion attacks. However, in our modern lifestyles, it equates to high blood pressure, stress and if not treated, heightened anxiety and depression. Plus, when we are stressed we tend to take short shallow breaths. (Haven’t you ever noticed when you’re really stressed that you sometimes forget to breathe?)

Never underestimate the power of deep breaths! Deep breathing or abdominal breathing helps expand your diaphragm, making more room for your lungs to expand. When you breathe deeply, your body can more efficiently process oxygen and expel carbon dioxide as well as slow the heartbeat and lower and stabilize blood pressure. There are a number of applications you can download on your phone that can help you with guided breathing exercises and meditation. Or, you can simply take a break (like right now) and take a few deep breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth. Try inhaling five seconds and exhaling for five seconds. Feel better?

Hydration – don’t forget to drink water!

During AE, there are going to be some late nights. Nothing goes better with late nights than a good cup of coffee. But don’t forget to fill that water bottle as well. Being hydrated can help you feel even more energized and healthy. Plus, drinking your full recommended amount of water promotes cardiovascular health, skin health, kidney function and brain function. But how much should you drink? A good rule of thumb is to drink half an ounce to an ounce for every pound you weigh. So if you weigh 150 pounds you would drink between 75 and 150 ounces a day.

I like to move it, move it.

When we’re busy, we tend to sit at our desks for long stretches of time without getting up. Even though you feel like there are not enough hours in the day, it’s very important to get up and stretch every hour or so. Hunching over a screen for 8 to 10 hours a day is not good for your mind or body (this includes staring at your phone!).

Want more tips on keeping yourself and your team stress free during AE? Watch our wellness video below!

Interested in Ditching the Drama this AE season? Check out our guide below for some excellent tips.