A concept I’ve been playing with more consciously lately is the idea that depending on where I’m at — that is, how I’m feeling emotionally and physically — is inevitably going to impact my outlook and performance. It will also impact how much I’m able to give to others, especially my children. This probably seems like total common sense, but I’m approaching it from a more mindful position now. I desire more good vibes in my life and that takes some work.
The truth is, things like weather, hormones, how well I slept (or didn’t), and what I’ve eaten recently really impacts my performance and ability to act with an open heart. Again, it likely seems obvious, but somehow, I’m finding that putting more awareness around it is empowering. Awareness lessens the negative impact on my day-to-day living. Let’s unpack each of these factors individually:
- Weather. There’s no question (especially living in the Pacific Northwest) that weather impacts me. Sunny days tend to energize me. Overcast days tend to add a bit of an oppressive feeling — like there’s a bit of extra resistance to whatever I’m doing. I have to work harder to feel and think positively. On those days, I know my serotonin levels may be lower (I know sunlight helps boost serotonin), and I can choose to do things to boost levels. Movement and magnesium are two things I’ve learned that can help.
- Hormones. Dude. I feel like all I really need to say is “hormones” and leave it at that… but, I’ll expand a bit. At the urging of my acupuncturist, I’ve been keeping track of my menstrual cycle since the fall of 2016 via the tracking app, Period Tracker by GP Apps. I’ve got nearly 8 years of data collected on when my cycle has come and gone, what my symptoms and moods are during each cycle, and projections for when I’ll be ovulating and when my period may come again. Having access to this data has legit helped me explain some seemingly out-of-the-blue feelings or tendencies. A prime example of the sentiment, “knowledge is power”.
- Sleep. Sort of goes without saying, but if you don’t get a good night’s rest, you’re likely in for a tougher day. The older I get, the more this concept has actually sunk in. I’ll be honest. I spent many years hearing that advice and sort of thinking “yeah, yeah. I’ve heard that before.” On mornings after not sleeping well, my instinct is to immediately hit the coffee, but I’ve learned to make sure to get at least a cup or two of water down before I go for coffee. The water helps even more than the coffee if you can believe it. Fresh air also helps. Even just going outside and taking 10 deep breaths makes a dent.
- Food. Yeah so this is my least-favorite one to talk about or write about. I’ve got some issues surrounding food. (Come to find out, almost everyone I’ve asked seems to as well. You’re not alone if you were wondering.) As if I needed more data on the food factor, I noticed getting up yesterday morning that my whole body was more stiff than usual. I know that in part it was due to an extra-active day the day before, but I also know from experience (many, many experiences) that I had collectively had quite a bit of sugar in various forms all weekend. Increased intake of sugar and carbs absolutely impacts how my body feels and how my brain is working. Will I actually put this into practice and avoid too much sugar at one time? Maybe? No, probably not. But I’m more aware and I’m confident frequency will decrease over time.
What’s the point of bringing up all of these factors? I find it helpful to put them all down in one place so I can add even more awareness around how I’m feeling, and why I’m feeling a certain way. And THEN, I can start adjusting accordingly to achieve good vibes.
About to get your period and feel really bloated? Give yourself permission to wear yoga pants and a comfy fleece to that PTA meeting instead of jeans. Really dragging because you woke at 3am and couldn’t get back to sleep? Move some of your to-dos or more intense brain work to later in the week. Adjusting to accommodate your own needs will go a long way in building trust with yourself. Saying “I’ve got you” to yourself will actually start meaning something, too.
I am really proud of myself for becoming more aware of how I’m feeling and what my needs are on a given day. And, for thinking about what factors have led to how I’m doing. In a way, this practice gives me advanced permission not to do all the things in a given day. It’s calming and reassuring.
Cherish yourself: Challenge yourself to become aware of what factors are contributing to how you’re feeling each day and adjust your to-dos to achieve good vibes. Even modifying the way you speak to yourself to meet where you’re at makes a difference. It’s the ultimate self-love and self-care.