Struggling to motivate after the holiday?

Monday morning was rough. I've been nursing an emotional hangover after 12 days of vacationing with the kiddos in Northern California. We visited old friends in Oakland, ate burritos in the Mission, and explored tide pools in Carmel. It was beautiful, nourishing, and draining all at once.

Yesterday I found myself feeling numb, exhausted, and disoriented. Since holidays can be stressful, I figured I'd share three practical (very simple) strategies I used to help me return to myself. You can watch the video here or read below.

1. I unplugged even more.

When I'm tired I find it difficult to resist scrolling - on photos, emails, or anything. I understand my brain is looking for a squirt of dopamine. Knowing this about myself, I've deleted social media apps but noticed myself falling into the trap of watching clips on YouTube. What helped me stop was deciding that I wanted  to be present. Just setting that intention helped nudge me back into the driver's seat of my attention. Being present unlocks my power and motivation. I don't have to push through so much resistance if I'm present. I spontaneously gather motivation if I'm really in my body. It's shocking how slippery presence is and how intentional we have to be to just be.

Tip: If you're out of it, like I was, put your hand on your heart now and say to yourself: "Thank you body for keeping me safe. I'm ready to listen. I'm ready to be here fully now." Be still and notice what you notice.

2. I walked in nature.

This is two for the price of one. Nature helps evoke a sense of awe and serenity in me. Using my muscles helps me recognize my control and agency. It quiets the defeating thoughts in my head about feeling tired. In my book I share compelling research on how forest bathing and exercise can shift our moods and wellbeing. I know this is obvious which is why I call it a #boringbasic. The thing is we just have to do it.

Tip: Decide when and where you can break away today (even if it's to breathe fresh air for 1 minute and walk).

3. I spoke with a friend.

Not any friend or loved one will do. At least for me. I need to connect with someone who can hold the space for me to let it all hang out. Our nervous systems are designed to co-regulate. Did you know that when you feel connected with someone your breath and heartbeats begin to synchronize? Sync up with someone who isn't stressed.

Tip: Don't text. Call them, walk with them, or Zoom with them - asap. Ideally you can be in their presence or at least hear their voice. This helps your nervous system register the signal that you're safe and supported so you can return to homeostasis. Don't worry about being an inconvenience.

Let me know what works for you to decompress and motivate when you're feeling zonked. The world is tricky now, tend lovingly to yourselves.