Stress Release

Too much stimulation and distraction, and no time for integration leads to  many symptoms including overwhelm, confusion, forgetfulness, anxiety, and depression, to name a few. While it may seem impossible to get a handle on it all slowing down makes a huge difference.

Our brains need down time to integrate and process our experiences. Some helpful body-mind activities that can facilitate integration include slowing down and practicing mindfulness, walking, hiking, yoga postures, and spending time in nature. Even cleaning around the house or yard, gardening, puttering, can help our minds and bodies integrate and our nervous systems settle. When was the last time you stopped to watch the clouds move across the sky, or the pause to listen to the water moving in a stream bed, or the birds flying by?

Attitude is everything here. If you put too much effort into it you will only be adding another "to do" to your list. Integration happens naturally when we pause and become receptive and soften our focus. Slowing down allows our energy to settle, and our mind to digest everything we have been doing, feeling and experiencing. Choose something that feels nurturing and relaxing and does not take a lot of mental engagement. Minimize outer stimulation (screens, loud sounds, groups of people) and enjoy as your system decompresses. While a 30 minute pause at some point each day is ideal, even 5 minutes of slowing down will have benefit. It takes determination to stop and slow down, but your nervous systems will thank you.

Tip: If you find that your mind is racing and you are too antsy to rest and relax, try some rigorous exercise for at least 20 minutes followed by 5 minutes of rest.

Happy Relaxing!