Decaffeinate for less stimulation
Caffeine is a stimulant for your central nervous system that affects your body in numerous ways. If you’ve been feeling a bit hyper with too much nervous energy, then try switching one of your coffees for a decaf.
Sleep enough to recuperate
A good night’s sleep is critical to your health. Are you getting enough sleep? Could you be getting to bed even half an hour earlier? There’s a great sleep calculator here to get you thinking about what your body needs and how to calculate your bedtime.
Breathwalk to find headspace
During my retreats, I take my guests on a 30-minute silent walking meditation as a pre-yoga warmup. On a breathwalk, there is no destination. Your aim is to walk as naturally as possible, with a focus on slowly making your exhale longer than your inhale. Try it!
Release tension
When we are under pressure we contract our muscles and this constant tension can lead to muscle stiffness and pain. A careful undoing of tension in the body is like easing off the pressure valve. In my Six Ways to Destress (see below) you can find ways to help your body relax.
Respond to your body
Your body is constantly sending you feedback: “Relax! Take a break! Calm down!” What if, instead of hitting the override button, you listened to your body’s requests. If your habit is to put your own needs last, then stop overriding and start listening.
The great thing about micro changes is that they don’t take much effort. There is no need to feel overwhelmed by a huge goal. As you navigate your day, check in and ask yourself would a micro change make a difference here?
Let me know how you get on.
Need some help?
To get more detailed information on how to practice breathwalking or how to release tension from the body, download your free guide here.
