7 Things I learned on my first trip of 2023
Work and life can eventually catch up to you when you’re trying to do too much, which is exactly what happened to me at the end of 2022. I started feeling more anxious and developed chronic chest pain.
In mid January, I traveled to Orange County, California for some much needed R&R. We slept in, took our time in the mornings and getting places, and had plenty of down time in between activities and time to wind down at night.
1. Say no, Stay in, Do less
After our first full day in California, I still felt stressed and overwhelmed. I ended up needing to say no to dinner out that night. We stayed in, made pizzas, and watched TV. Say yes to the things that will serve you or make you happy, but be okay with saying no when something won’t energize you or bring you joy.
2. Slow down and breathe
Why are we always in such a rush? In part, for me, it goes back to number one. I get FOMO, try to do everything and overbook myself. It’s no wonder I find myself running late to everything, end up exhausted at the end of the day, wake up feeling not well-rested, and then start it all over again. It’s a vicious cycle.
Since getting back from our trip, I’m trying to complete everyday tasks at a more leisurely pace. In California, we took our time getting ready in the morning, did our hair and makeup, pampered ourselves, and left the house for the day feeling 100%.
In the airport, I remember rushing to get checked-in and through security. Our hands were shaky, we fumbled with our bags, and panicked to get to our gate on time, only to have to sit and wait for nearly an hour. When we rush and scramble, we end up making more mistakes that can delay us even further.
3. Stop multitasking
Take things one at a time. When there is too much to keep track of, make a list to prioritize tasks. Focus on what is in front of you. And take breaks when you need to, to get re-grounded. My favorite breaks involve a stop at the nearest coffee shop for chai lattes or (on this trip), lavender milk tea!
4. Be mindful and present
Look up from your phone and appreciate your surroundings and the people around you. If you know me, you know I love to capture every moment in photos and videos so this is a really challenging one for me, but I think you get more enjoyment from an activity if you try to be present in that moment. Take the picture and then focus on enjoying what’s in front of you.
The other part of mindfulness involves paying attention to what your body is telling you. If you feel stressed, don’t overdo it. If you feel tired, rest. If you want ice cream… well, life is short! Have the ice cream (in moderation of course).
5. Move your body
In California, I took time for morning stretches and yoga, and we walked around quite a bit during the day, whether we were shopping, exploring a town, or just enjoying the oceanside views.
Maybe you try yoga or maybe you walk somewhere instead of driving. It doesn’t have to be high-intensity activity or a “workout.” Just get up and get the blood flowing. I find this usually gives me more energy and brainpower to accomplish other tasks. Exercise and movement are also incredibly beneficial for reducing anxiety!
6. Get outside
Whatever the season! But especially if you live near palm trees. Soak up the sun, play in the snow, and dance in the rain. Fresh air can work wonders.
7. Rest, rest, rest
At the end of the day, don’t push yourself beyond your limits. Our bodies are designed to need rest.
Certainly many of these things are easier said than done (and easier when you’re on vacation and don’t have your regular responsibilities to take care of), but I’m hoping to keep gradually incorporating these things into my life and work toward achieving a more stress-free, slow life. At the end of the day, if you take nothing else away from this, my mantra for the rest of the year is “be kind to yourself,” and I hope it can be yours too.
Exploren with Lauren 