I’m a woman in my late twenties who's immersed in the world of social media. Lately, I've noticed this "lower your cortisol" trend everywhere I turn. On top of that, I'm a pelvic floor physical therapist and a self-improvement enthusiast. Learning and growing are my jam—I strive for a happy, fulfilling life.
But let's get real: balancing a full-time job, running a blog, managing social media, cooking, cleaning, reading, keeping up with skincare, socializing, and working out 5-6 days a week can feel overwhelming. Despite all I accomplish, there's this nagging feeling that it's never quite enough. Sound familiar?
To tackle this, I've recently started working with a coach and therapist, and it's been eye-opening. They've helped me find ways to calm my nervous system and slow down the perpetual rush.
Here’s what’s been working for me, and I hope it resonates with you to:
Meal Prep Mastery: Sundays are sacred for meal prep. On hectic weekends, I opt for an affordable delivery service nearby. If that’s not an option, a quick trip to Sprouts or Costco for a rotisserie chicken and salad bag sets me up for healthy lunches all week. Plus, I slice fruit in advance because if it’s not ready to eat, chances are I won’t bother.
Fitness Commitment: Workouts are non-negotiable—they're as essential as any work task. I plan them in advance, maximizing my gym time efficiently. Prioritizing good sleep means occasionally turning down plans, and I've learned to be okay with that. True friends understand.
Mindful Transitions: After each patient, I wash my hands, take deep breaths, and visualize shedding their energy. It's a small ritual that prevents carrying emotional baggage into the next session, ensuring I go home feeling clear-headed.
Meditative Movement: Instead of mentally listing tasks during runs or walks, I use this time to meditate. Focusing on the sensation of each step or the details of nature around me helps reduce cortisol levels and keeps my nervous system in check.
Embracing Rest: Resting is tough when we’re wired to always be productive. But I've learned the hard way that pushing myself to the brink leads to burnout. Rest isn't a luxury; it's necessary for efficiency and productivity.
Evening Ritual: Wind down with stretching and deep belly breathing, especially after intense workouts that spike cortisol. Bringing my levels back down ensures I don’t carry stress into the rest of my day.
Work in Progress: Life’s a journey, and we're all figuring it out as we go. Be kind to yourself, prioritize sleep, cherish time with loved ones, and strive for presence—putting down your phone for a few minutes each day can work wonders.
Remember, it’s okay not to have it all figured out. Self-improvement isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress and finding what works best for you. Here's to a balanced, fulfilling life!
