As we start to move into the colder months it's common to feel run down, fatigued, low on motivation, or like you're constantly battling colds and flus.
Today we're going to take a super quick look into ways we can get more rest into our lives to help our bodies with the transition into Autumn.
For some quick tips on boosting your immunity, check out my blog post "Winter is Coming".
The colder weather and shorter sunlight hours can be a real challenge for our bodies. This is a good time to slow down a little and begin turning inward. Look for ways to get more rest into your days and really prioritise your self care so you can preserve your energy levels and your health.
Rest More
More time spent resting gives our bodies the time they need to recover and repair. Now that we're losing sunlight and warmth, we need more down time than we typically do during the warmer, sunnier months.
See if you can find two 15-20 minute blocks during your day to put your work down and rest. Try going for a short walk, soaking in a nice relaxing bath, reading a book, or taking a nap.
Sleep More
Everyone is a little different when it comes to sleep, but aiming for 8 hours actual sleep time is a good starting point. For most of us, this means spending 8.5 - 9 hours in bed.
As the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, you may find yourself needing a little more sleep than usual. My advice? Reprioritise your evenings to make sure you're giving yourself a chance to get 8 hours. It'll do wonders for your body and mind, and you'll find you're more productive and in a better mood the following day.
If you're struggling with sleep, check out my blog "Feeling like a Zombie" for some tips on how to get better sleep.
Do Less!
This is a little counter intuitive for our busy, hyper productive world. But, if we can whittle our to do lists down by 20-50%, this declutters our day and makes space. We spend less time rushing from one thing to the next, can really focus in on the tasks we choose to do, and we avoid overextending ourselves and starting down the road to burn out - trust me, burn out is no fun.
Check in with your to do list, are there some things you could delegate to others? Perhaps some tasks that aren't really all that important when you stop to think about it? Move them off the list. Your health is more important.
As an added bonus, when you put less items on your list you're more likely to actually complete it, which leaves you feeling good about the day and you'll be better able to switch off in the evening. If you always end your day with tasks hovering over you, you'll feel more exhausted and find it harder to power down your brain at the end of the day.
Give it a go!
Take Mini Breaks
Ok, maybe you're struggling to find the time for a longer break, and your to do list is out of your hands. In that case, look for opportunities to take mini breaks. Put your work down for a minute, close your eyes, and focus on your breath.
Even one minute of calm, focused belly breathing can go a long way towards regulating your nervous system, settling your thoughts, and refreshing your mind and body. For a step by step on breathing well (and why this is so important) check out my blog "Just Breathe".
Get Outside
Fresh air and being in nature can do wonders for calming our frazzled nervous systems and letting our minds unwind. Look for opportunities to go for short walks outside - maybe park the car a little further from work today so you can stretch your legs and get some fresh air.
Or find five minutes to have a cuppa out in the garden at the start or end of your day.
Is there a park or a garden nearby to your work? Great! Slip out during a break for a short walk, some fresh air, and a chance to get amongst the trees.
You'll be less stressed and more relaxed when you return to work, which means you'll have more energy and be more productive.
Still Struggling?
If you can't see a way forward or have tried everything and are still really struggling with your health, energy levels, mood or motivation, get in touch. I offer a free 15 minute consult either by phone or in person to discuss your situation and assess whether acupuncture could be a good option for you.
Let's get you loving life again.