Sometimes we get too stressed and just need to slow down. Our bodies need it. We have to recharge. It's important for our overall health. I have some interesting information for you on this.
I know that sometimes I don't sit down to rest or stop what I'm working on at the computer until my energy tank is on empty. The following explains why it's probably not so wise to do that.
The following article is reprinted with permission.
The Twenty Minute Break
By Carol Solomon, Ph.D. MCC
Master Certified Coach
http://www.StressEating.com
I read a book recommended by a woman in my Small
Group Coaching Program called "The 20-Minute Break",
by Ernest Rossi.
This book is based on 2 decades of research testing on
human performance. What the researchers found was that
our bodies periodically give us physiological clues about
how to stay energetic, healthy and productive.
This research describes the "ultradian rhythms", which are
the 90 to 120-minute cycles that most of our key mind-
body systems follow. Our creativity, alertness, emotional
balance, physical energy and appetites all follow a wave-
like cycle of activity followed by a short period in which the
body seeks rest and renewal.
Most of us neglect our body's signs that we need to take a
break. We push ourselves through clear signals such as
diminished concentration and energy, often overriding
them with stimulants such as caffeine or nicotine.
This pattern sets the stage for chronic stress, fatigue and
overload of our systems.
For instance, here's what Dr. Rossi says about the period
between 3 and 4 pm. "Researchers have called this period
the breaking point. After this point, the arc of our circadian
consciousness, which has been on the ascendant, begins
its downward curve.
The entire mind-body is reorienting from outer-world
performance toward sleep, our inner world of nurturing,
healing and restoration."
How many of us are reaching for sugar and/or caffeine
between 3 and 4 PM?
The answer, according to Dr. Rossi, is to start to recognize
our body's signals and honor them by taking 2 or 3 20-
minute breaks during the day.
During this time, you can practice the long lost art of doing
nothing. Just let your mind relax, float, drift or simply enjoy,
allowing the body to direct its own healing and
rejuvenation.
At most, you simply witness, quietly and objectively,
whatever changes happen by themselves, without acting
or reacting to them in any way.
The challenge of the 20-Minute Break is to actually use the
20 minutes for REST. Answering phone calls or email, or
switching your attention to another project do not count.
To get the benefit, you actually have to REST. On the days
that I have been able to do that, I have felt better,
rejuvenated with an increased sense of energy and
creative thought.
Although I did NOT want to interrupt my day, it was well
worth the investment.
If you are unable to take 20 minutes during the day, the
best thing you can do is to take a breather to get in touch
with yourself.
Recognize that you are under stress and need rest,
rejuvenation and recovery. Instead of indulging in sugar or
some other addictive substance, see this as an opportunity
to recognize your need and honor it in the most nurturing
way.
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I would like to point out that as diabetics we shouldn't be reaching for sugar during the day anyway. However, you know as well as I do that none of us are perfect and that sometimes we do because old habits are hard to break. Maybe we should just think about sitting still and resting our eyes instead. Just find a few moments of peace and we'll be better off for it.
Thanks for reading.
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