How To Take Breaks That Are Actually Recharging

Summary

In episode 132 of Calmly Coping, therapist Tati Garcia emphasizes the importance of taking intentional breaks to recharge and manage energy and emotions. She highlights how short breaks can significantly impact well-being and offers strategies for identifying personal recharging activities. Garcia suggests reflecting on what nourishes or depletes you, prioritizing sleep, and creating a structured plan for breaks. The episode also includes practical tips for activities such as meditation, exercise, and creative pursuits to enhance relaxation and mental clarity. Join the conversation in the Calmly Coping community for further insights and support.

Takeaways

• 😀 Taking breaks is essential for managing energy and emotions, preventing feelings of being drained and overwhelmed.
• 💤 Sufficient sleep is the foundation for feeling recharged; prioritize restorative sleep to enhance mental clarity and emotional processing.
• 📋 Create a list of activities that make you happy and help you relax to identify what recharges you.
• ⚡ Reflect on what drains your energy to increase self-awareness and improve your daily routine.
• 🧘‍♀️ Engage in recharging activities like meditation, yoga, or creative hobbies to enhance your well-being during breaks.
• 🍏 Nourishing meals and snacks are vital; avoid skipping meals to maintain energy levels.
• 📅 Plan your breaks in advance, using timers or calendar reminders to ensure you take them regularly.
• 🏆 Reward yourself for taking breaks, enhancing the enjoyment of daily activities and self-care.
• 🌍 Avoid mentally taxing activities during breaks, such as mindlessly scrolling social media or checking the news.
• 🤝 Join communities or workshops to connect with others and share experiences related to managing anxiety and self-care.

Q & A

What is the main focus of this podcast episode?

The episode focuses on how to take intentional breaks that are truly recharging, helping individuals manage their energy and emotions effectively.

Why are breaks important according to Tati Garcia?

Breaks are essential for managing stress and preventing burnout, allowing individuals to care for themselves and maintain their productivity.

What should listeners do to identify recharging activities?

Listeners should create two lists: one of activities that make them happy and relaxed, and another of activities that drain their energy, to gain insight into their personal needs.

What is the number one recommendation Tati makes for feeling recharged?

Tati emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep, as it is crucial for feeling refreshed and effectively managing anxiety.

Can you name some activities that are considered recharging?

Some recharging activities include meditation, going for a walk, yoga, creative pursuits like coloring or crafting, listening to music, and enjoying nourishing meals.

What should be avoided during breaks?

Listeners should avoid mindlessly scrolling through social media and engaging in activities that add stress, such as checking the news, during their breaks.

How can listeners create a plan for taking breaks?

Listeners can schedule breaks in advance, set timers for focused work, and identify specific recharging activities they can engage in during their breaks.

What does Tati suggest for maintaining motivation to take breaks?

She suggests rewarding oneself for taking breaks, which can help reinforce the habit of taking intentional, recharging breaks throughout the day.

How does Tati suggest using the holiday season for recharging?

Tati recommends taking time off during the holidays to disconnect, spend time with family, and reflect on the past year while preparing for the new one.

What is the goal of the upcoming live workshop mentioned in the episode?

The workshop aims to help participants cultivate a calm mindset and set goals for the new year, specifically tailored for individuals struggling with high-functioning anxiety.