Summer is a time when we have loads of energy - long days, sunshine, warmth all providing the mind with a desire for fun and outwardness - travels, socialising, outdoor sports and hobbies, music festivals, gigs etc!
This Summer has covered many of these for me. Some highlights have been:
A bikepacking holiday in The Black Forest of Germany Ride to the Sun - 100 miles of cycling through the night from Carlisle to Cramond (very fun!) Kelburn Garden Party music festival (lots of dancing!)
While all of this was amazing and memorable, I recognise within myself that I forget to slow down amidst all the fun.
I notice I am rushing, becoming clumsy and less efficient with work. There’s less space for my usual downtime self care routines, exercise and mindfulness habits change, there’s less home cooked meals and less sleep.
You may recognise some of these patterns within yourself, which can over time lead to a disruption to the equilibrium of the body. This can manifest in many different ways:
fatigue/exhaustion Increased anxiety Cardiovascular changes - less ability to slow breathing/heart rate Skin changes Flare up of inflammatory or auto-immune conditions bladder/bowel/gut disturbances fever/illness Heightened sensitivity to temperature Fungal infections Headaches and migraines Hormonal imbalances/menstrual cycle changes
These signs and symptoms are signs of overworked nervous and immune systems, often with inflammation present, signalling the requirement for the body to rest and recover.
When these systems are in overdrive, the volume for our pain signals are turned up. Current pain can feel more sensitive and old niggles can reappear. While it may feel frustrating or disappointing, this is just one of those minor blips that needs a little more clarity and a friendly reminder to overcome.
It’s important to reflect on the lead up and note any lifestyle changes, or any signs and symptoms that appeared.
Our holistic sessions intend to guide you through this process to provide a sense of calm and confidence in your choices of tools and strategies to support your recovery, so you can continue to enjoy summer mindfully and sustainably.