Seven Mindful Activities
I don't like to be that person that complains about being busy. So, usually when someone asks how I'm going I don't share many details and I bottle up my emotions. I do this because I feel like a burden telling loved ones about how I am feeling.
Since starting a business, being busy seems like an understatement. A sixteen hour work day is quite typical, forgetting to take a lunch break happens often, and I have a to-do list that seems endless. But, why would I put myself through this? Because I truly believe the Lost Sols brand can help create a sustainable fashion industry.
Even though I am super passionate about changing how we manufacture footwear, three weeks ago I started having intense chest pains and crazy nightmares. It became unbearable and I thought maybe if I give up caffeine that would solve all my problems...well it didn't! All it did was make me super tired and angry. So, as I reunited with my caffeine friend, I knew I had to search for activities that would keep me calm in the present moment.
So, as I tried and tested the below activities, I thought it would be a good idea to share the results, just in case anyone is reading this in need of a calming moment, or to break the anxiety driven hamster wheel.
Keep in mind, I am not an expert in this field, these are just activities that have worked for me.
1. Yin Yoga
Recently, Christian and I have joined a Yoga Studio, and so far I have no complaints. I love that I not only have an activity I can share with my partner, but after having a long day at work, a guided meditation can re-centre my emotions.
2. Write down your thoughts
A recommendation from a friend was to leave a notepad by the side of my bed. So, when I'm tossing and turning throughout the night I write down my thoughts to remove them from my headspace. I can honestly say, putting pen to paper has assisted in some good night sleep.
3. Walk along the water
I understand we are not all blessed to live 15 minutes from the ocean, however I have found recently walking on the sand at the end of my day reconnects me to the environment and reminds me why I want to preserve it.
4. Reduce your sugar
Confession time, I have a massive sweet tooth. From bakery treats to bars of chocolate, it never lasts long in my house. However, the sugar high does nothing for me when I am running around trying to tick everything off my to-do list.
5. Listen to relatable podcast
If you are like me and work in an office alone, I recommended tuning into a Mamamia or Life Uncut podcast. Throughout the day, these ladies are filling my office space with laughter, making me feel a little less lonely as well.
6. Get creative
This is a mindful activity that I have carried through from my COVID lockdown days. When I couldn't leave the house and my workload was piling up, ending the day with a big glass of wine and some water paints was the ideal way to distress, and I highly recommend it regardless of whether you are stuck in a lock down or not.
7. Debrief with friends
This is a very important point. When I am task driven I am only focused on that, however as the emotions bank up and the finish line seems far, taking time out to call a friend or grab a coffee can be a break in the stressed out circuit.
