The Power of Taking a Break
When the lines between work and personal life blur, and the pressure to be productive is unrelenting, it’s time to call a timeout. Recognizing that certain things are beyond your control is acceptance.
This week’s theme is about hitting the pause button. In the past several years, I have been full of determination and ambition for success and increased production while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Spoiler alert: I’ve hit a wall. I can argue that most of us most likely don’t hit the pause button enough. This metaphorical expression stresses the importance of stepping back and taking time for oneself to prevent burnout, reduce stress, maintain mental health, and balance priorities.
Balance is NOT getting to the point where you often convince yourself that you do not have time for a break. When you feel like stress and anxiety are endlessly chasing you, this is burnout.
These signs and symptoms convey an overwhelmed nervous system. Those with an overstimulated nervous system experience the following:
Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression
Digestive issues
Compromised immune functions
Poor cognitive activity
Nevertheless, I will take a proactive approach and in turn a short hiatus from the newsletter and social media to recharge. By doing this, I aim to reduce unwanted stress, recharge, and nourish from within. With this decision came a slew of guilt and remorse that I may be letting others down, but I eventually let that go. Courage and self-awareness are cheering me on as I need to be the best version of myself to be present in a loving, unresentful way for others.
By prioritizing some radical self-care, I am seriously committed to self-love and connecting to the power of a pause. Boundaries and mini-breaks increase productivity, creativity, and overall well-being. By interrupting the cycle of stress that life typically brings, physical and mental restoration brings one to a healthier place.
Balance and self-care are not selfish but essential for long-term success and nourishment.Recharge, relax, and engage in situations that give pleasure, relieve stress, and improve mental clarity. Practicing acceptance, self-reflection, and mindfulness acknowledge reality rather than giving in to feelings of defeat. When you direct energy to a more positive and productive outcome, you support and recognize the value of pausing.
In the last several weeks, my challenge has been creating newer recipes without using a stove. As I patiently wait for replacement parts, new recipes are challenging but not impossible. One of my latest creations is a Savory Chickpea Waffle. Enjoy!
Thank you for your continued support. Please share your best anecdotes for creating balance or experiences for incorporating more self-care breaks in the comments.
In good health!
