rest & resistance
There always seems to be this push to start the new year “strong.”
To use whatever energy there is leftover from the long, involved holiday season and power through until the end.
Just keep pushing. It’s right around the corner.
A few more days. An extra espresso shot added to the morning brew.
One reason the holidays can feel draining is because of the emphasis on giving. There’s beauty in the idea of filling each other’s cups, giving back to the community in charitable ways, gift giving, gathering. So long that the counterpart of giving is not lost: receiving. Whether that means taking time to refill your own cup, or to accept help from others.
There’s only so much exertion the body can take before it demands rest. If rest isn’t provided, the body will speak up. Winter colds, the flu… Forcing the body to stillness. Turning urgency into illness.
Urgency lacks presence.
The real power is in hearing what the body is asking for and to know when and how to take a proper rest.
5 Ways to Regain Energy & Boost Mood
Morning sunlight
Walking meditation
Meaningful conversation with a loved one
Screen-less “me” time
Nourishing “comfort” meal made from whole foods
Productivity is a keyword in corporate vernacular. And rest has become synonymous with weak.
Hard work is rewarded. Externally, from a boss who’s difficult to please. Or from an internal dialogue that sees rest as a reward rather than a standard. The need to prove and improve is a never ending cycle.
The brain’s reward system runs on dopamine, which is where that feeling of satisfaction comes from after completing a task. Sometimes chasing a dopamine hit is as simple as checking boxes off the to-do list. Even if it means sacrificing rest.
Dopamine isn’t the only “happy” hormone, though. During rest, serotonin is released, as a precursor to melanin, aiding in mood regulation.
As the new year approaches, release the outdated concept of starting strong. Rather, take the opportunity to soften into the new year with presence.
