I was standing at my computer (I love my standing desk!) and felt a wave of overwhelm crash over me. The pressure was mounting from the list of To Dos, deadlines coming from multiple directions (including my own mind), and the sensations in my body started to escalate. The previous two nights my sleep had been disrupted. I was heading into full-on spin mode and I was overwhelmed at just the thought of my list of projects.
I noticed the thoughts:
“I have to get everything done before the holidays.”
” I must finish this project.”
“People are counting on me! “
Then I stopped.
I made a commitment to take care of myself first. Not just a few minutes, but to really listen to what my body needed.
I realized the thoughts were leading to my feelings (overwhelmed), which lead to my actions (running around with my body clenched), and my results (mistakes and more overwhelm).
So I changed my thoughts! I decided *I* was more important than my work. Taking care of me was the top priority. I was tired. I was exhausted after two nights of interrupted sleep, so I went back to bed.
Yes, I still had things to do. Yes I had deadlines. And after going back to bed, I was able to do the things on my To Do list. I could function at a higher level.
When you hear those thoughts start spinning try this:
Stop. Pause. Breathe.
What is the one thing you can do for yourself in this moment? Rest? Nourishment? Moving your body? Do it! Even just 1 minute of whatever you need will make a big difference.
Your body (and mind!) will thank you for it.
As we head into the holidays, I’ll be taking a break for some much-needed rest, relaxation, and family time. I’ll be back in January refreshed and ready to go. Ready to start the new year feeling rejuvenated.
Peace and Rest,
p.s. – Join me in Athens on January 9th for Sacred Success, a workshop for defining success from a place of stillness. Start 2016 with intention!