Code Maintenance += Self Maintenance
As I’ve mentioned in the last few posts, I’ve been feeling pretty overwhelmed and a bit underwater with some of the new material we’ve covered this week. The consistent struggle and frustration has left me a little deflated and exhausted on more than one occasion and I’ve had to practice a lot of reaching out for help and even sometimes just stepping away from the computer for a few moments to take a few deep breaths and clear my head.
An approach/practice I’ve found to be critical under intense, high-pressure situations in the past has been to try to find ways to be more intentional about self-care. Even in the busiest times — and, in fact, ESPECIALLY in the busiest of times — there are things you can do everyday to take care of yourself and your basic needs — things that are often all-too-easy to let fall by the wayside when you’re feeling busy/distracted/overwhelmed.
SLEEP: This is KEY. I am definitely not a subscriber of the trendy #teamnosleep mantra. Quality is important. Quantity is important. There is enormous anecdotal and scientific evidence around this. Prioritizing sleep sometimes means that you have to cut out other things in your life, but making such a compromise should offer ample reward.
EAT: We all have to eat. These days, many of us are fortunate enough to have many options around what we put in our bodies. Of course, there are times when these options aren’t ideal, but as much as you’re able, try to make smart choices around your diet. Remember, what you eat feeds your body AND your brain. Particularly when you’re in a growth/ challenge period (hopefully, that’s more often than not), it’s important to consume in a way that’s nourishing and supportive of your goals instead of a hindrance to them. Do everything in your power to keep yourself healthy, because it’s a guarantee that any stressful situation you find yourself in is only going to be amplified (not in a good way) by sickness.
MOVE: Everyone knows exercise is important, but the word itself can sometimes be triggering/loaded for folks. If it feels like an additional overwhelm for you at this time, maybe instead of “exercising”, just try to “move”. A few quick ideas:
— take the occasional walk around the block (invite a friend/co-worker, listen to music/podcasts/nature)
— try the stairs instead of the elevator
— stand up during phone calls (or even better, try to pace)
— try to touch your toes every once in a while (and then reach up to the ceiling for a niiiiiice back stretch)
— pick up a heavy-ish thing (briefcase, coffee-table book, etc.). Maybe try to hold said heavy thing over your head
The point is that while everyone is at different fitness levels/abilities/inclinations, incorporating any sort of extra movement into your daily routine is only going to help you — both in the short- AND long-term. Try what sounds doable for you.
LAUGH: Phone a friend. Listen to a quick comedy podcast, or two (maybe on your walk?). Watch a quick(!) video. Read an excerpt from a funny book or blog-post. Ask someone to tickle you (only kidding). Laughter is important and can quickly transform your entire disposition.
GRATITUDE: Even in the midst of enormous stress — short of life/death — there are always so so many things in your life to be grateful for. Practicing gratitude has huge benefits. Try starting your day by quickly jotting down 5 things you’re thankful for (people, places, things, etc.). This takes almost no time and WILL improve the quality of your day.
BREATHE: Fortunately, we don’t have to devote a huge amount of brain-time/space here. Our bodies are super smart and — if we’re lucky enough to be in good health — take care of this for us. It’s pretty awesome actually. Sometimes though, it’s helpful to check in with yourself during the day. One fairly accessible way of doing this is by focusing on your breath. A couple times a day, maybe try to pause on what you’re doing and take a few deep, intentional breaths. Focus on your inhale and your exhale. It feels good! It’s good for you! Give it a shot! Bonus: this could be another opportunity to practice gratitude.
Obviously, none of this is rocket-science and/or ground-breaking material. It is all also merely my opinion and a reflection on factors that have made a huge difference in my life. Take what feels relevant/doable for you (if anything), and leave the rest. Except the laughter. Never forget the laughter.
Song of the Day: ‘Price Tag’ by Sleater-Kinney
