Slow Down Your Speed

Photo credit: Jane Burton

Have you ever eaten a meal and realized when your plate was nearly empty that you didn't really taste your food? Have you ever felt like you ate really fast?

Do you have moments where your mind is racing and you struggle to slow down your thoughts?

Do you ever feel like you're walking faster than everyone else?

With these activities, have you felt anxious or experienced sweating, palpitations and heightened senses?

If you can relate to any of the above examples, you might have excess adrenaline. Excess adrenaline can be caused by long and short term stress, but it's important to see your primary care provider to rule out any issues with your adrenal glands. If your doctor gives a clean bill of health, there are many things you can do to rebalance your adrenaline levels.

1. Acupuncture - Acupuncture treatments can target the adrenal glands and the nervous system, which can help your body better manage your adrenaline levels. Many times the results are immediate and sometimes can last for days. It's recommended to receive treatment twice per week for a few weeks in a row. Click here to make an appointment.

2. Mindfulness - Practicing mindfulness can be a wonderful way to slow down racing thoughts. By focusing your attention on one thing at a time, you are training your brain to slow down. I lead an online mindfulness class on Tuesdays at 8PM and Thursdays at 8AM. To try out a class, click here.

3. Nature - Spending time in nature can slow down your speed. Taking ten minutes during your lunch break to walk outside can make a big difference. Worth noting that walking around listening to music or engaging in a phone conversation negates the benefits. It's important to not talk so that your senses can take in the fresh air, the temperature and the beauty around you. If you're walking with someone, insist that for the first ten minutes you walk in silence before talking.

4. Restorative Yoga - The beautiful thing about a restorative yoga practice is that you get to completely surrender. Blankets, blocks and bolsters support you as you rest in various positions. It's extremely calming. If you're interested in a one-on-one restorative yoga session, contact me.

5. Eat Without Distractions - When you sit down to have a meal, eat. Just eat. Don't look at your phone or page through a magazine or book. Don't watch television. Focus on your food. Enjoy each bite - the texture, flavors, etc. Not only will you enjoy your meal, but it'll slow down your eating pace, which is better for your digestive system.