3 ways to switch off

As we move into the season of holidays, long weekends, and summer vacations, there are more opportunities to schedule rest, relaxation, and time to “unwind.” While we experience feelings of rejuvenation after a week in the sun or simply a few hours in nature, it's no secret that many of us (myself included) find it incredibly difficult to actually "switch off."

Whether it's because we're working from home (and therefore "living at work," as many people have reported), constantly connected to our email inboxes, reflexively checking social media, or simply feeling like we "should" be relentlessly busy, it's never been harder to unwind and step away from the hustle and bustle of life than it is today. As with most difficult things, switching off and truly relaxing is one of the most important and beneficial things we can do for our physical and mental health and to bring the nervous system back into balance.

Calming the senses

Our senses have never been so overstimulated as they are today. While our brains and bodies are still the same as people's brains and bodies several thousand years ago, we experience more "stressors" today than humans have ever had to experience. A crowded email inbox, noise pollution, the pressure to respond to texts and messages, toxins from processed foods and synthetic chemicals, and the ever-present stress of managing hectic personal, professional, and social lives mean the nervous system is constantly under stress, and it is in dire need of repair. Taking time out to unwind physically, emotionally and mentally can help to dramatically reduce stress, boost the immune system, rebalance hormones, improve sleep, increase energy levels, induce a better mood and increase our overall well-being. Whether you're flying to exotic countries or wondering how to make the most of your weekends and holidays, try these three ways to unwind:

1. Digital trennen

It's difficult to metaphorically "switch off" unless we literally turn off our digital devices. Every time our phones alert us to calls and texts, we experience a release of cortisol (the “stress” hormone), causing us to respond as quickly as possible. When we hear these warnings multiple times a day, we become bathed in a near-constant stream of cortisol, leading to chronic stress - which can then lead to elevated blood pressure, impaired digestion, sleep problems, suppressed hormonal function, and reduced vitality. While putting your phone on silent or airplane mode is a great first step to reclaiming your sacred space to unwind, nothing comes close to literally turning off your phone, laptop, and any other screens you face in the home. A weekend, a day, or even just an hour without technology makes us remember what it's like to be a true human being. Read (link removed) Greenberg for 65 device-free, bite-sized activities that are scientifically proven to promote true happiness and help your eyes rest from staring at screens, use the (link removed) to soothe them while you sleep.

2. Verbinden Sie sich wieder mit sich selbst

Meditation can help us reconnect with ourselves on a deeper level, especially when we spend so much of our daily lives focusing on work and other people. There are many ways to meditate, so take time to find which method works best for you to unwind. Try a techniqueRelax and be awareby Sayadaw U Tejaniya, which contains 31 short chapters to create a month of meditations for daily life. Unwind with a guided meditation (link removed) or just sit for a few minutes a day and observe your thoughts without judgment (link removed). If you know you are easily distracted during meditation, the (link removed) wrap can help block out excess light and noise and calm the mind and senses. Many people report a greater sense of relaxation, clarity, presence and a significant reduction in stress with regular meditation practice.

3. In den Flow-Zustand kommen

If you're the type of person who loves nothing more than moving your body and feeling your heartbeat, you might benefit from a dynamic "moving meditation." Exercise is deeply therapeutic for the body and mind, helping to reduce stress and release endorphins (“happy hormones”). When we move in a way that we enjoy, we can also experience a feeling known as “flow state”; a feeling of being fully engaged, present and completely unified in mind, body and spirit. Many people experience the flow state while running, cycling, dancing, climbing, surfing, skiing, swimming, or moving through postures in a yoga class. The key to achieving flow state is doing something that is challenging enough to keep the mind focused but enjoyable enough not to cause stress. Getting into the flow state is associated with greater happiness, higher intrinsic motivation, greater creativity, and better emotional regulation, and finding your flow can help you truly “unplug.” If you want to find your flow in a Vinyasa-style yoga class, a non-slip mat is essential - you'll be amazed at how much more fluid, stronger and distraction-free your practice can become when you're not afraid of slipping! Choose the (link removed) or use the (link removed). To completely switch off in Savasana, we also recommend the (link removed) so that you are rejuvenated, revitalized and ready to “switch on” again when you are ready.