The Weekly Reset

Right now, many of us are constantly feeling stressed out and overwhelmed. Wouldn't it be great if there were a button we could push to just "reset", and get more relaxed and energized? While this magic reset button doesn't really exist, there are a few practices we can incorporate into our routine to achieve the same feeling.

One of the biggest reasons we can feel so groggy and exhausted during the day is because of a lack of blood flow. When blood circulates throughout the body, it delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells and helps the body get rid of waste and toxins. 

When we spend all day sitting at the computer, blood can get settled in the lower half of our body, which delivers less blood flow and oxygen to the heart and brain. The practices listed below can help reverse this and restore blood flow throughout the body, helping you feel more energized.

1. Lay Down with Legs Up the Wall

Get close to any wall that you have, and lay down with your legs straight up against the wall. If needed, you could also place a chair (back facing the wall) and place your legs at a 90 degree angle. Remain in this position for between 5-10 minutes.

2. Take A Walk

Take a break from the computer and take a fast-paced walk to help get blood flowing throughout your arms and legs, and get your heart rate up. If the weather isn't great or you can't get outside, find a staircase and do 5 minutes going up and down instead.

3. Stretching

Side stretches can be done by standing with your feet hip-width apart, and stretch your arms up over your hand, and lean to one side. Breathe deeply as you inhale and exhale, and feel the nice stretch throughout your side.

4. Diaphragmatic Breathing

This is known as "belly breathing" and it can help lower stress, reduce blood pressure, lower heart rate, and help you feel a sense of calm. Find a comfortable spot to sit on the floor, get your shoulders relaxes, and place one hand on your stomach. Take deep inhales and exhales, allowing your stomach to expand outward on the inhale and draw back in on the exhale. You can repeat this several times, as long as it's calming for you.

If you'd like to learn more tips to help maintain wellbeing and manage stress during these times, check out our free Wellbeing Infographic.