I GOT RHYTHM
Ever had those days where you just don’t seem to feel that motivated? There is something to be said about having a PJs day, at least every now and again. I’m talking about those moments in time that you try to get started but for some reason you seem a little held back, and unmotivated. More than just a stay at home in bed all day and watch TV sort of day. Lately my focus has been fairly scattered on many different things. Trying to just focus on the here and now and what’s in front of me each day seems almost a hopeless task. Tired? Maybe. COVID weary? Definitely. Out of routine? YES!
Talk about a feature story coming along at the right time in life. I know many of you readers will appreciate this as you email me saying some of our stories presented themselves just at the right time in your lives as you were going through something relatable. For you, MiNDFOOD presented an idea, a solution, or perhaps some acknowledgment that what you are feeling or experiencing is okay. Sometimes just knowing that others before you have also felt the same way about things is enough reassurance to carry on.
After reading Dr Rob Selzer’s feature ‘The Glorious Rhythm of Rituals’ on page 42, I realised the importance of routines and that this is what I have been missing. There has been so much change with our youngest finishing school, both our daughters living overseas, and our Christmas and summer holidays cancelled. Life seems to just keep changing and my usual routines were no longer needed or happening. It wasn’t until I read this story that I realised – the sense of rituals was what I was missing. I no longer had a routine that gave my day structure.
Working from home some days and in the office others made me feel all over the place and unsure what to focus on. Each morning my day starts with a walk and a list of household chores to get done before I set off to work. So, at night now, I write out the things I want to achieve the following day. Slowly, I’ve begun to feel more focussed and to enjoy my downtime a lot more. I also have felt less lost.
Rituals play an important role in managing stress, as they help the brain with a sense of structure and strengthen the sense of the familiar and accomplishment. In these times, anything I complete is a win.
Something else I have learnt in this issue but have perhaps known subconsciously for a long time is the importance of having a laugh, and how it makes us feel good. Janet Stone’s feature ‘The Secret Power of Laughter’ on page 46 describes the transformative nature of a few chuckles. Our work, health and relationships can all be improved by just having a belly laugh. There’s nothing like a good giggle ... it really is the best medicine. I must remember to build that into my daily routine!
“HAVING A LAUGH JUST MAKES US FEEL GOOD.”