How well rested do you feel?

Fatigue can be described as a lack of energy and motivation.

The causes are related to lifestyle and may be due to stress, diet, insufficient or excessive exercise, poor sleep and/or lack of rest.

In yoga therapy we always want to look into the cause and address that while also addressing the symptoms.

I cover how to improve your sleep in the Yoga Sleep Guide, so today let’s get into rest.

When we’re stressed or experiencing anxiety, we may feel fatigue even if we’re getting good sleep because we’re physically or mentally always going.

How to Rest more

Take a break from your phone. I know-this is obvious but I’m raising my hand too for needing this. More to come on yoga therapy for habit change but for now, just take a break from looking at your phone and look outside at the horizon. Try it a few times a day. 

Lay down in supported savasana for 5-10 minutes. Supported savasana is legs up supported by a chair, your bed, couch, etc. Close your eyes and rest.

Spend time in nature. Walking, hiking, gardening, sitting by water.

Mono-task. Do one thing at a time whenever possible. 

Slow down. One day I was in the shower and I just realized I was rushing for no reason and that slowing down can be an act of self love. You know how we all love it when your hair stylist washes your hair? You can do that for yourself too. Take your time, massage your scalp, your face, your neck and shoulders. Take your time preparing your meals. Let your actions be of love. 

“When you rest, you catch your breath and it holds you up, like water wings…” -Anne Lamott

Practice: Yoga For Fatigue

Join me for a practice to uplift your energy and improve your focus. The practice uses a slight retention or hold after inhale to help gently lift your energy. Use this practice in the morning through the early afternoon for mild fatigue.