In our overworked and get-it-done now culture, it’s easy to forget we are finite beings. We can only push ourselves to a certain point. With the holidays or other busy seasons, figuring out how to refuel ourselves should be our priority. You have to give yourself permission since many people consider this important. For a long time, I felt I didn’t deserve to be different than what everyone else was doing.
- Eat lunch away from your desk. It’s not relaxing to eat lunch at your desk while continuing to work. Everyone has 10 minutes to step away and enjoy your lunch. It’s a challenge if everyone is glued to their desk, but you have a right to a lunch break. Try it and observe how you feel. You may come back refreshed and better able to manage your the rest of your day.
- Take mini-breaks. During a hectic season, I didn’t realize that I was constantly holding my breath. I started to take deep breathing breaks throughout the day, until it came more naturally to me. WheneverI feel stressed and overwhelmed, I pause and take three deep breaths. You can close your eyes if that helps. Another idea is to look out a nearby window and observe what nature is doing.
- Stop overstuffing your schedule. Leave transition time before and after meetings so you feel less frazzled. Many practitioners have 50 minute appointments so they can transition. You can build in extra time for traffic and train delays.
You can make choices to lessen the stress in your life and focus on the things you can control. This will especially help digestive issues you are facing. You are worth the extra care and effort.
