Press Pause: The Power of Taking Breaks to Beat Stress
Updated: May 28
Want to manage stress and actually learn to get through your day feeling like you rose above the angst, anger, and worry of it all?
Here are few things to get your started on learning how to do that!
TAKING A BREAK - Yeah, you’ve heard of this but have you looked at this…
I know that preventing and managing stress can seem like an enormous task in today's fast-paced world. However, one crucial aspect of dealing with stress is simply taking a break, hitting 'pause' on our daily activities.
Now, when I say 'taking a break,' what comes to your mind? Do you start feeling anxious, as if dropping everything off your plate and indulging in a bit of relaxation is simply out of the question? Or does it sound like a much-needed escape to an oasis of calm?
But here's the thing - allowing yourself the time to decompress doesn't have to be complicated or overwhelming and can be done on a daily basis. Whether it's a few minutes of meditation, spending time reading a book, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, taking a break is possible for everyone.
Not only does taking a break give your brain the rest it desperately needs, but it can also help you increase your productivity and even improve your overall quality of life.
So, let me ask you - are you willing to give yourself a few moments of peace today?
Taking a break is about being purposeful and deliberate, same as any other task or meeting you have scheduled in your day.
What about this? Are you someone who glorifies overworking and being “sooo busy” - does that make you feel important or like you are being super productive?
THE PROBLEM WITH NOT MANAGING YOUR STRESS...
Neglecting to take time for yourself can lead to physical and mental health issues. I REPEAT - lack of breaks can lead to physical and mental health issues!
Taking breaks can seem counterproductive to many highly productive, high achieving and overachieving people. But, remember we are not robots. Yes, we are strong, smart and can have a lot of willpower, but let’s remember, we are not robots and reflect on this, you may be asking yourself for too much. It’s important to understand that we are not wired to go without rest.
Taking breaks can be simple, spontaneous or planned. Whether it’s a fifteen-minute walk outside, an hour-long workout, or a leisurely day spent doing something you love, taking breaks helps rejuvenate the body and mind. It allows you to reset and focus on things that truly matter, and its a proven stress buster!
Many people fail to prioritize self-care because they believe it’s selfish or a waste of time. However, self-care is essential to function and succeed in your personal and professional life. It's the act of taking care of yourself mentally, physically, and emotionally to increase productivity, maintain healthy relationships, and prevent negative thought patterns. It’s important to remember that prioritizing yourself is not vain but instead responsible and proactive management of your well-being, it's the equivalent of taking a shower.
IN SUMMARY
Taking breaks and prioritizing self-care, can greatly improve your overall well-being. Being kind to yourself, taking time off when you need to - from your relationships with others to your personal goals. It's crucial to understand that you are deserving of the time, energy, and effort it takes to care for yourself properly, and it's never too late to begin making meaningful changes in your life.
FREEBIE!
I have a great worksheet that I use with some of my clients. It is a "Self Care Assessment" worksheet. This hands on tool allows my clients to reflect on ways that they are caring for themselves and also identifying the specific ways that they are neglecting themselves! Its a great eye opener! With this exercise my clients find areas in their lives lacking attention and it is this neglect that keeps us feeling exhausted, lost and emotionally drained.
You think you know, but you have no idea!
Take your assessment now!
Awareness is half the battle.
Want a copy of my FREE "Self Care Assessment" Worksheet pdf?
Click the button below now!