September – The new New Year?
September can be one of the busiest times of the year with people coming back to the office after holidays, overflowing inboxes, the start of the school year, and the never-ending to-do lists. So now that we’re two weeks down, it’s a good time to check in with yourself. How has it been going for you? Are you feeling energised and recharged after the summer or are you already frazzled and longing for a break?
The new New Year
September has become the new New Year and we’re under a lot of pressure to supercharge our schedules, transform ourselves, and generally be as busy as possible. It can be really overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to take stock now, and avoid overcommitting ourselves. I’ve definitely been guilty of signing away all my free time in September and then come November just longing for a quiet night in with nothing to do. Sound familiar?
Pause before you reply
Remember: not everything requires an immediate response. Pause and take a breath before you reply to an email or pick up the phone. Tell someone you’ll get back to them about an invitation. Picture yourself as the fierce gatekeeper of your calendar and remind yourself that not everything deserves your time. Try to delegate or share tasks. In short, learn how to protect your peace.
Slow down
While some stress is positive for our nervous system and motivates us, living in an increasingly fast-paced world where it feels like everything has to happen now and that every moment must be put to good use, can put us under undue pressure and lead to burnout. Try to give yourself a buffer of unscheduled time around busy times for rest and recovery.
Microdose feel-good moments
It’s so important to be kind to ourselves and to fit as many feel-good moments as possible into our days. Have a boogie in the kitchen while the kettle boils. Peer out the window and let your mind wander. Make up a story about a stranger in the crowd. Imagine where they could be going and why. Try to be playful in your mind and movement.
Breath is your superpower
Check in with your breath. Place one hand on your heart and the other on your belly. Notice how fast your heart is beating. Is the breath shallow and just coming from the upper chest? Does your stomach feel tight? If so, there are lots of simple breathing techniques that will calm your body, and soothe your nervous system. They’re free and you can do them practically anywhere and at any time.
A simple diaphragmatic breathing exercise to try now
Place one hand on your heart and the other on your tummy. Imagine there’s a little ‘smiley’ balloon in your belly. Now breathe in to a count of four and picture the balloon expanding and its grin widening. Now breathe out for four, feel that knot in your stomach decreasing. Repeat this pattern as many times as you need. And, you may even find that you’re smiling again.
Ps. In November we're bringing a small group to Shanbally House in Co. Tipperary for a weekend of slow movement, breath-work and unhurried time in the countryside. If you feel the busyness now, join us. Come November, this will feel like the best gift you’ve ever given yourself!