I’m (for sure) guilty of this! Recently, on an incredibly busy day, I got derailed deep diving research videos on the best fangs for my daughter’s Halloween costume. Nearly an hour spent.

Oops.

Did she really want the teeth? Yes. But did it require a research deep dive? On a day I had a ton to do? No. Guilty of being human.

Here’s the thing – as humans we have these energetic cycles called ultradian rhythms. They’re 90 to 120 minute periods where at the height of this time frame we have a peak of productivity, and then… a dip. Signs of this energy dip might be…

…fatigue
…lack of concentration
…brain fog
…distraction (ahem, hello me!)

These are messages that our body / brain needs a break (10-15 minutes will do the trick) – to move if we’ve been still, or to be still if we’ve been moving (and likely – get off screens).

When we ignore these signs we may find ourselves…

…online shopping
…scanning social media when we don’t want to be, or
…reaching for quick energy in the form of sugar, processed carbs, and caffeine.

This is our brain’s attempt to get what we need –

an energetic pause from what we’re doing. And while it can be so easy to just barrel through (after all, there’s always more to be done!), this can back fire – lead to anxiety, overwhelm, and wreck havoc on our health and our productivity.

Here are a few ideas for refueling yourself on an ultradian break:

-get off screens and stretch
-use the bathroom
-eat a healthy snack
-go outside and see the sun
-listen to music and dance

Have fun with this – make these breaks your very own! And keep this thought in mind:

“I’m giving myself this break to help me…

…be more productive in the work that Im doing
…stay on track with my desired health goals, and…
…feel better in my body, mind, and spirit.”

Wishing you loads of energy and permission to pause. ♡