By Deanna Tasi L.Ac.
As we round the corner into the homestretch of 2021 many of us are finding our new rhythm of life. No one could deny the intensity of the past 18+ months. And as we resume back into the routines that Fall brings – it’s good to take a breath and reflect.
Many folks have experienced heightened stress since the pandemic began. It’s good to check in with our bodies to see how we’re handling things. Here’s five cornerstones we can use to gauge our health:
Sleep
Are you getting enough sleep? The amount of sleep folks need varies- but when our sleep is healthy we fall asleep within a few minutes of bedtime, we stay asleep through the night; and if we need to get up to use the restroom, check on kids, etc., we’re able to resume quickly. When we’re getting enough sleep we are able to wake without an alarm in the morning.
Digestion
How do you feel after you eat? Are you moving your bowels at least once per day? Does your belly generally feel OK or do you experience bloating, gas or pain?
There’s many factors that can influence digestion- including diet, movement, and stress.
Mood
Is there an overriding emotion that you are experiencing? Or do you feel calm when you have a chance to relax? Are there emotions you need to take time to sit with? Or do you need to prioritize ways that help calm your nervous system?
Physicality
Are you moving regularly? How’s your back? Your shoulders? Your jaw? How does your head feel on a day to day basis? If you mostly work in front of a computer- is your set up OK or is it causing you increased pain somewhere in your body? Do you take breaks regularly? Are you getting an average of 30 minutes of movement per day? Do you have an injury that needs attention?
Energy
Do you have enough energy to move through your day? Often any of the above – on their own or in tandem can affect our energy levels. Additional factors like overworking and/or long-term stress can also lead to feeling fatigued.
If any of your systems are feeling off, it’s important to take the time to tune into what it needs. Acupuncture can also be beneficial to help you regulate your systems and move stagnant Qi that may show up as stuck emotions, GI issues, pain, etc.
We’re always here to help- so make an appointment to come see us!
