Rush Hour Commute
Commuter stress is a daily reality that I confront head-on. Each morning, a sense of dread washes over me as I contemplate the impending journey into the heart of London. It's not the office grind that weighs heaviest on my mind, but the arduous commute. The Southern network train experience is a continuous saga of strikes, cancellations and scruffy train carriages, leaving me disheartened by the substantial cost of travel for such a poor service.
From the train journey, I then have to connect to the London Underground tube service adding to the dread, I frequently find myself wedged amidst a sea of sullen travellers, equally as frustrated. After pushing and shoving from all directions to get onto the platform, once on the tube, I often find myself leaning under someone's armpit due to overcrowding. The noise levels within the confines of the tube far surpass what should be tolerable, amplifying both physical strain and mental fatigue for me.
To navigate this seemingly insurmountable dread, I've embraced a handful of strategies:
My Book: If I am fortunate enough to get a seat, armed with a book, I plunge into its pages, seeking refuge from the pandemonium that surrounds me.
My Music: My ever-present headphones transport me to a realm of music that I love, although often futilely, as the tube's endless screeching tends to overpower the melodies between certain stops. However, I don’t lose heart.
Breathe: I've started practising mindfulness and deep breathing exercises. Focusing on my breath and being present in the moment helps alleviate some of the anxiety and tension that can build up during the journey. It's a simple yet effective way to create a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
Podcasts: Instead of getting lost in negative thoughts or the hustle and bustle around me, I've started listening to podcasts. This not only distracts me from the stress of the commute but also allows me to learn something new.
Get Physical: Incorporating a bit of physical activity into my routine has made a noticeable difference. I try to engage in light stretching and dancing in the mornings. This helps me feel more awake and prepared to face the day. Similarly, when I arrive back home, I make an effort to unwind with a short workout to release any built-up tension.
These strategies have led to a more positive and manageable experience during my daily commute. It's all about finding the right techniques that work harmoniously to help alleviate the stress that inevitably comes with travelling into and out of London during the busy rush hour.