Everyone seems to be sprinting into the New Year while you’re just trying to find your socks and remember where you left your motivation.
Are you also feeling like you are being shoved into a racecar that’s already revving at full speed. But honestly, you are still feeling like you’re in the pit stop, sipping tea and rubbing sleep from our eyes? Yeah, me too.
This January feels like an overenthusiastic friend who has dragged me out of bed for a morning run, shouting, 'New Year, new you!' Meanwhile, I am wondering if it’s acceptable to still be wearing pyjamas at my desk!
Don’t rush. Pace yourself. We’re in this for the long haul. You don’t need to do everything, but you can do a few things well, with focus and presence. And that’s more than enough.
Here are a few tips that will help you honour a slower rhythm while still getting back to work.
1. Let there be light (and movement)
The power of light exposure in the morning to reset your circadian rhythms. Think of it as your body’s natural wake-up call. Even on grey days, a quick 5–10 minutes outside can do wonders for your mood and energy. While you’re at it, add some light movement. No, you don’t need to sign up for a HIIT class. Simply bouncing on the ball of your feet for a few minutes can stimulate your lymphatic system, improve circulation, and give you that "I’m awake now" boost.
2. Micro-rest and mindfulness
Step away from your desk a few times a day and take five deep breaths. Yes, five. (It’s harder than it sounds.)
Look out of the window and notice something – anything - beyond your screen. It's called the 20:20:20 guideline - every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away from your screen, for 20 seconds.
Sip your tea or coffee like it’s a fine wine. (Bonus points if you add a "Mmm" for dramatic effect.)
3. Essentialism: Do less, but better
January can feel like the season of saying "yes" to everything. Meetings? Yes. New projects? Yes. That awkward post-holiday catch-up? Sure. But what if you didn’t?. Instead of trying to tackle everything, identify the one or two tasks that will make the biggest difference today. Then give yourself permission to let the rest wait. It’s not laziness; it’s wholehearted leadership.
As you ease into the year, honour your body’s need for rest while navigating the demands of work.
Step into the light (literally), breathe deeply, bounce a little, and focus on what truly matters. You might just find that the best way to "shine" this year is to let yourself rest first.
Now, here’s a question for you: What’s one small thing you can do today to honour your need for rest while showing up for your responsibilities?
Here’s a quick activity you can do right now:
1. Interlace your fingers and place your hands behind your head.
2. Point your thumbs downward.
3. Lean the weight of your head into your hands and thumbs.
4. Stay here for a few deep breathes or even a few minutes.
This small adjustment with your thumbs stimulates the vagus nerve, which helps calm your nervous system and promotes a sense of ease and relaxation.
Simple, right? These moments of connection with your body can be incredibly powerful, especially during times of stress or when you’re craving balance.
a quick activity you can do right now:
1. Interlace your fingers and place your hands behind your head.
2. Point your thumbs downward.
3. Lean the weight of your head into your hands and thumbs.
4. Stay here for a few deep breathes or even a few minutes.
This small adjustment with your thumbs stimulates the vagus nerve, which helps calm your nervous system and promotes a sense of ease and relaxation.
Simple, right? These moments of connection with your body can be incredibly powerful, especially during times of stress or when you’re craving balance.
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