The Power of Pause: Comforting the Self in a Rushing World

Have you ever felt the need to hush your brain? Do you feel exhausted just listening to your racing thoughts? Do you feel compelled to answer that ping or check that notification that just popped up? Have you already done it automatically?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions, you're not alone. In our fast-paced, hyperconnected world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. The constant barrage of information, demands, and expectations can leave us feeling frazzled and out of control. A seemingly innocent reel can lead us into a spiral of thoughts and leave us unsatisfied with our life!

Haven’t you complained about being "stressed, "exhausted" and "burnout"? The compulsion to respond to the notifications from our gadgets right away, to order groceries on the app while in a meeting, organizing domestic chores in the head while driving, etc: often causing us to worry about the next thing on our to-do list while we are at the current one!

Who hasn't felt overwhelmed by the constant barrage of notifications, deadlines, and tasks? It's easy to get caught up in the urgency of the moment and forget to take care of ourselves. The compulsion to respond immediately, multitask, and always be "on" can lead to feelings of stress, exhaustion, and burnout.

It's important to recognize that this behaviour is often driven by a perceived sense of urgency, rather than a genuine need to respond immediately. Worrying about the next thing on our to-do list while we're still working on the current one can create a never-ending cycle of stress.

Amidst this chaos, there is a simple yet powerful tool that can help us regain our sense of calm and well-being: the power of pause.

What is the power of pause?

Pausing is simply taking a moment to step back from the hustle and bustle of life and reconnect with ourselves. It's about creating a space of quiet and stillness in our minds and bodies, allowing us to rest, reflect, and recharge.

Why is pausing important?

Pausing offers numerous benefits for our mental and emotional health. It can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety: Taking a break from the constant stimulation of our environment can help calm our nervous system and reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

• Improve focus and concentration: When we're constantly bombarded with information, it can be difficult to concentrate. Pausing allows us to clear our minds and focus on what's truly important.

• Boost creativity: When we're feeling stressed and overwhelmed, it can be difficult to be creative. Pausing can help us tap into our inner resources and spark new ideas.

• Enhance self-awareness: When we take the time to pause and reflect, we can gain a deeper understanding of our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Simple Strategies for Incorporating Pauses

• Listen to understand and not to repond: Cliched as it sounds, it is a very helpful technique should you try it sincerely. Listen to listen, breathe and allow someone to finish. Pause… slow down… and then respond.

• Wait to respond to messages: Don't feel pressured to respond to every message or ping immediately. Give yourself time to process the information and formulate a thoughtful response. Think of those messages you responded to in the last meeting.. Could they have waited?

• Take breaks from screens: Walk around and become aware of the physical environment around you!

• Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to the taste, texture, and aroma of your food. Eat slowly and savor each bite. Keep screens away! No photos too!!!

• Schedule downtime: Dedicate specific time slots in your day for relaxation and leisure activities. Slow paced activities.

• Practice mindful breathing: Take a few deep breaths and focus on the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. Anytime! Anywhere!

• Limit multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to improve productivity and reduce stress.

• Have a no-plans weekend: Try having a weekend where you make no plans. Just be!

Remember, the power of pause is not about escaping from life, but rather about finding a moment of peace and clarity amidst the chaos. By incorporating regular pauses into your daily routine, you can cultivate a greater sense of calm, well-being, and resilience.