I was on the phone with a client this morning and she said, “It’s only Monday and I’m already feeling burnt out and drained!”
Understood. Can you relate too? Monday could be tough. One reason for this is that people tend to think about all the things they need to do as soon as they return to work, and suddenly feel overwhelmed.
what to do?
Pause, reevaluate, and become aware of the signals your body and mind are giving you. Are you feeling unusually tired, irritable, or isolated? What else is taking up space in your thoughts right now? Whose sense of crisis is this? Does this need to be addressed immediately, or do I just need to let them know that the issue has been acknowledged and will be incorporated into the workflow? Where does each task fall on the priority list?
Your health is important not only to you, but also to other members of your team. Try these microdose Mindfulness® exercises to help you focus your thoughts and approach tasks with a clear mind.
news
When we’re stressed, or even just busy, we can put blinders on and stop ourselves from really experiencing what’s going on around us. Just do nothing and notice what’s around you for one minute. What do you hear? What do you see? What can you feel? What does it smell and taste like? This is the key to being fully present in your environment and helps you stay grounded in the space you are in.
4 breath
Feel comfortable wherever you are. You can do it anywhere, sitting or standing, and just close your eyes.
Take four deep, slow breaths to stimulate your body’s natural relaxation response. Count the length of each inhale and exhale as 1, 2, 3, and 4. This type of breathing naturally activates your parasympathetic nervous system, reduces stress hormones, and shifts your focus away from the stressor you were experiencing.
Please take a look
Choose something close to you and concentrate on it as if you were seeing it for the first time. It can be stones, paper clips, anything. Observe its color, texture, and other characteristics. Focus your entire concentration for 15 to 30 seconds. This focus time allows you to eliminate distractions, even for a moment, and focus on what’s in front of you.
calgon moment
Where do you want to be now? Would you like to sit by the beach and listen to the seagulls? Floating on a quiet pond in the warm sun? Are you walking in a lush forest? Let’s go there in our minds for a moment. Feel the textures, smell the smells, and take in the sights. Experience it as if you were there. This not only temporarily distracts the mind, but also awakens the senses in a calming and restorative way.
Remember that self-compassion is key. Acknowledge your efforts and remind yourself that it is human to feel overwhelmed. Seeking support from friends, family, and professionals can also provide reassurance and perspective. You are not alone on this journey.
Want to know more? Let’s talk. I’m here for you.
