Fatigue Or Relaxed, Which Are You?

We often carry so much stress that we can't decide if we are tired, stressed, or relaxed. This talk outlines a simple breathing exercise that will enable your parasympathetic nervous system to take you into a a state of rest and digest. It can be use at any time, in any conditions.

Transcript

Have you ever wondered where your energy has gone? You find yourself feeling tired, You've lost all your motivation, And taking a long nap sounds like a perfect solution. Yet, Just a few minutes ago, You were energized, Lit from within, As you created new and exciting work. It was as if it was sent from above. How did things change so quickly? And how do you get that energy back? It is entirely possible that what you are experiencing is not fatigue, But a glimpse of relaxation, And it might feel foreign. We often operate at a high level of stress or anxiety as we push through our tasks of the day for weeks, For months. And when the letting go of even a small amount of that stress leaves you feeling lighter in spirit, It may also leave you with a sense of relaxation that takes you by surprise. If this is the case, You may be living in a state of chronic stress. The ongoing intensity of stress without experiencing the relaxation response can be damaging to your health, And your baseline has likely moved to a higher level of stress, Even under calmer circumstances. So how do you get yourself back to a normal, Consistent baseline, One of homeostasis, Where you're able to relax and let go of muscle tension, Let go of ruminating thoughts, And become healthier in a more responsive, Less reactive view? It can be as simple as taking a mindful pause and becoming aware of your breath. Taking as few as five conscious breaths can reset your nervous system, Breathing in to a count of four, Holding for a count of seven, And exhaling to a count of eight. This cues your parasympathetic nervous system to kick it in, And taking you out of a state of fight, Flight, Or freeze, And bringing you to a place of rest and digest. And using this tool can become a habit through awareness. As you become aware of the sensations within your body, You'll become aware of tensions. Tensions in the body are always a good indicator of stress, And using your breath will help bring you to a calmer place. So the next time you feel you've lost all your energy, Check in with your body. What are the sensations you're experiencing telling you? Are you tense and under stress? If so, Turn to your breath. Breathe in for a count of four, Hold for a count of seven, And exhale for the count of eight. Give yourself a few conscious breaths and relax. You may even give your brain the extra dose of oxygen it needs to feel that energy again. Be well.