Louise Trudel
What is your STRESS-o-meter reading?
Do you sometimes feel like everything is in a rush, that you're oscillating between the Everything is fine! and the OMG! Total loss of control ?
We live in 4e speed and we do several things at the same time. From morning to night!
In fact, not so long ago, we WAS WATCHING a film.
Now, we LISTEN watching a film with half an ear and very partial attention because that attention is fragmented between the film, the "beeps" of notifications, our cell phone, our tablets and other such gadgets.
A brain on nitro
If you're wondering why it's hard to fall asleep at night and why your sleep is light, it's probably because your brain (which requires 20% of your energy) is in nitro mode all day and even in the evening!
…while you're WATCHING a movie or TV series. Hello, relaxation!!! (cynical tone)
Brain activity and sleep
Furthermore, a study on rats demonstrated that brain activity does not cease when they have completed a maze course. On the contrary, an EEG showed strong brain activity during the first sleep cycle following completion of the course.
No relaxation = no restful sleep
The functions of sleep are to repair tissues and to clear the brain of beta-amyloid proteins.and to help himretain the day's learning.
It simplifies the functions of sleep, but it's not trivial.These functions are crucial for maintaining life and memory.
If you've ever pulled an all-nighter, it's unlikely you'll remember the events of the previous day.
FACT: No one can relax for you.
If you don't relax, who else will do it for you?
Have you ever noticed that holding your breath is the first thing that happens when you are shocked, surprised, or stressed?
Guess what can help you regain control over your emotions, stress, and even anxiety?
Your breathing!
You breathe. You're doing it right now. But you've forgotten "how to do it" and how useful it is to reduce stress and regain control over an anxiety attack that's coming on.
I do yoga every morning and I have 10 years of tai chi and meditation experience.
I used all these tools to get through many trials.
So when I suggest you slow down a bit and watch the snowflakes fall or breathe while you steep your herbal tea, I know what I'm talking about.
Shall we try?
Inhale while slowly counting to 5. If you can, close your eyes and breathe by "bringing" your breath into your belly.
Hold for 2 seconds. Exhale slowly for 7 seconds.
And relax your shoulders. They don't belong next to your ears.
...
It's magical, isn't it? If you're feeling adventurous, repeat this two more times!
You will notice that the palpitations stop, your shoulders relax, your thoughts become organized, and you feel like smiling again.
Well done! Relaxation requires a minimum of time and practice. But believe me, it's worth persevering!
If you need a little boost to relax, the herbal teas of the Relaxation Collection will help you.
To help you sleep well, I recommend this brand new herbal tea Maximum Sleepwith valerian or herbal tea Deep Sleep with Passionflower