Are we there yet? Dec 2020 update
Ironically, or perhaps prophetically, twelve months ago I chose my word for the year – ‘flexibility’.
Plans made, plans rescheduled, plans cancelled! While constantly deflecting curve balls, 2020 looked nothing like I’d planned. The challenge to bend and adapt has led me to unexpected places and experiences.
Going with the flow
Very few of us have got off lightly and everyone I’ve spoken to is feeling more frayed than usual, as the year that we’ll never forget comes to a close.
As much as we pivot and go with the flow, our mind being in constant motion is tiring.
The sprint at the end of the marathon
Burnout is sometimes described as a combination of exhaustion and depression. It happens when we’ve needed to ask more of our body, mind or spirit, than it has to give. While burnout is quite common during the demanding dash to the Christmas break, this time we’re attempting that sprint at the end of a marathon.
A confession
Recently I googled my own (and others) tips on managing burnout! When you’re in the thick of it, sometimes our automatic response to even the most well-researched advice is “yes but I can’t do that right now because…”.
So let’s make it easy and give three simple things a go.
- Turn off devices and get to bed earlier – even if it’s only a couple of times a week.
- Drink more water and less alcohol.
- A quick walk is better than no exercise at all, even better if it’s in a natural environment.
An upside of my unexpected time in New Zealand has been having nature literally at my doorstep. Even a short wander through the native bush temporarily revives me. It bathes my senses – smelling the mossy undernotes, marvelling at the abundant bird life and listening to their songs. Thanks to the ever-present rain, the streams are full of rushing water and I always stop to drink in the sound it makes.
Hope
I’ve been sitting on my word for 2021 for the last couple of months. It just won’t go away, so I’m putting it out there that my theme for 2021 is “hope”.
Desmond Tutu wisely said “hope is able to see that there is light despite all the darkness.”
Those of us living in Australia and New Zealand are extraordinarily lucky. Geography and good governance has paid off. Let’s hope that shines on those struggling elsewhere.
Last chance for consultations and prescription refills
I’m taking my own advice to take time to replenish over summer with a slightly longer break this year.
The virtual clinic closes on Wednesday 16 December and reopens Tuesday 12 January. There are only a couple of follow up consultations available for my final week, so if you need any remedies to get you through the break please book an appointment now.
While I look forward to starting the New Year back in Sydney, for now there will be no in person consultations, with all sessions remaining online.
Seasonal reminders
If you’re struggling with food ideas for Christmas and other feast day celebrations, take a look at these healthier festive dishes or browse the recipe archive.
Don’t want hand cream or scented candles for Christmas? If you’d like Santa to give you the gift of naturopathy or business mentoring, point them to my gift voucher which can be purchased and downloaded at any time online.
Thank you
Thanks for subscribing to the newsletter, coming along for the ride this year. A special shout out to my clients old and new, colleagues for their support as always and those who joined me on my experimental daily Lives on social media during lockdown.
In challenging times, we’re stronger together.
I hope you have time to rest and replenish this summer and that the New Year is a brighter one.
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