The idea of temporarily pausing the speed in which we live our life isn’t always a conscious one. The luxury and privilege of escaping to a remote location to unwind and rejuvenate isn’t one that comes to many. The pace of everyday life, work commitments, family obligations, and financial stressors, all impede our ability to stop and pause.
Even the most motivated people run out of energy. The constant time constraints, scheduling, and giving to others eventually will weigh us down. It is common for us to feel like we are “in a rut” or “things will eventually slow down.” However, without a pause, there will be changes in our mental, physical and emotional functioning.
It is impossible for us to think that we can sustain a high- intensity schedule and maintain the ability to stay well-adjusted mentally, physically, and emotionally. Pausing gives our mind and body a chance to reset so we can replenish our productivity levels, restore strength and regulate our mood.
Becoming aware and acknowledging the signs and symptoms of stress and burn-out will help you become connected to your mind and body. This allows our unconscious thoughts and actions to become conscious-signaling our need for a pause. Here are some common symptoms your mind, body and behavior are telling you to pause:
· Fatigue
· Body aches/pains
· Lack of motivation/focus
· Constant feeling of overwhelm
· Irritable/anger
· Social withdrawal
· Angry outbursts
· Increase use of alcohol/drugs
· Disconnection from family
· Constant low energy
· Mental burnout
Pausing is beneficial tool to avoid emotional and psychological burnout. Here are some ideas to incorporate into your daily routine if you are not able to escape for a while:
· Go for a walk
· Stop and eat a meal
· Schedule time to unplug
· Create boundaries at work and home
· Listen to music
· Call a friend
· Take a nap
· Take a drive
· Create an exercise routine with a friend
· Read for pleasure
· Play a game with your family
· Write things down
· Yoga/stretching/deep breathing
· Spend time with your pet
Brief pauses can be a beneficial way to alleviate the on-going stress that can accumulate daily. Take a pause without waiting to be exhausted or overwhelmed. Restore your inner strength to access physical, emotional and mental balance. I always encourage my clients, students and friends to take care of you first. Give yourself a pause to connect to you, ignite creativity and allow some space to gain a new perspective on your personal situations. This pause will enrich your relationships, help you feel rejuvenated, and maintain balance in your life. Remember, pausing is a necessity, not a luxury!
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