Start each day by enhancing your calm. Take a few minutes for some simple desktop relaxation. You don’t need any special equipment, tapes, or videos — just a quiet spot to collect your thoughts. Try this simple exercise to help clear your mind and relax:

• Close your eyes and drop your arms to your sides, shake them out or let them rest on your thighs
• Starting with your feet, tighten and relax your muscles, working up to your face
• Breathe in for a count of 8, then out for a count of 8 while thinking of a calm place or happy time
• Remain in this state for a full 2 minutes and then stretch out — feeling relaxed and renewed.

Taking a few minutes for yourself can actually make you more productive and help you focus.