Living mindfully in today’s fast paced world can be a challenge. There are days where we rush from item to item on our to-do list and fall into bed exhausted, depleted and with our minds racing. We wake up to our phones and emails and get to work, school or just get busy doing what we do.
We know it would be ideal to slow down and do the whole “breathing and meditation thing” but we don’t have time!
What if, there was a way to change your perception of time and your your feeling of there not being enough time?
Would you take the chance to change?
Turns out the most people would prefer to do a boring mundane task or even shock themselves with an electric prod instead of sitting alone with their thoughts. (Wilson et al, 2014)
Our nervous systems react to our breath and our pace of our daily life. And what was meant to be “fight or flight” back in the day man roamed the wilds and lived in accordance with nature has now turned into “fight or flight” when our phones buzz, that person cuts off in traffic or we get a tough phone call from a loved one. This chronic stress on our systems can lead to so much stress, anxiety, depression and pain. It’s time to take a RESET.
There are a few ways to begin to allow your nervous system to go back to its peaceful “rest and digest” state.
* Take some deep breaths—even a minute of deep breathing in and out through your nose can calm you down and allow your system a break * Get outside! Even if this is near a tree or a cactus or someone’s lawn. There is a peace that comes with getting outside in nature that affects your system in a relaxing way. * Try a guided meditation with an app: my favorites are Insight timer and Calm. Super easy, just plug in your headphones and listen. * Try a yoga class! Restorative yoga and yoga nidra and therapeutic yoga are all wonderful options to relax your system and give your mind a chance to wander.
References: Wilson, TD, Reinhard DA, Westgate EC, et al. Just Think: The Challenges of the Disengaged Mind. Science, 04 July 2014, Vol 345, 6192, pp 75-77
Amisha Klawonn is a Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapist and a Fellow in the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapists. She is a professionally trained in yoga, Pilates and Barre. She offers private one to one sessions in Fort Collins, CO. She also offers health virtual coaching world wide.
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