We work hard enough, don’t we?

If you are like me, you probably work a lot. I mean, when your work serves a purpose you chose, you are into it, you give it your all, right?

Often you forget some of your essential needs like food and sleep… You’re so absorbed in what you do. 

Especially if you’re in a fabulous state of flow. The world around you disappears, and you are absorbed wholly and utterly in what you do, time is of no significance. Your whole being is deep in the flow and with the work itself. 

The state of flow is temporary

This is a beautiful state to be in. But it cannot last a lifetime. When it ends, you need to eat, sleep and recover. Recovery and time allocated to it, are vital for anyone who counts or depends on their high performance. You can be an athlete, businessman, artist, or scientist. We all experienced that state of flow. Coming out of it, you need to find your feet again and relax into reality. 

I often remember when I was on the trapeze daily, sometimes coming down to the ground, the risk of a fall or stumbling down a stair was much more significant after the training. In the air, I was focused, in a state of high concentration, aspiring for the best execution. 

On the ground, in the so to speak, comfort zone, I began to lose it, just for a little while, before my proprioception recovered. 

It’s the same with everything you do mentally and physically. Hopefully, most of what you do is a good combination of your mental and physical. The energy invested and required for optimal performance on all levels is demanding, so recovery should be an essential part of your plan and strategy to achieve your goals.

What does recovery look like?

It can look like just sitting and staring into space, imagine that! When have you last daydreamed calmly with no appending deadline on your mind? That’s a good one – try it! I recommend finding a time for daydreaming every day 🙂

Sleep is vital, too, I’ve said this before, but it can’t be too stressed, avoid screens before going to bed, and eliminate unnecessary light. Create a dark environment to sleep in, this is how we evolved to sleep. If possible, avoid alcohol and food for 3 hours before going to bed. 

There are other tips, but these are essential for a good night’s sleep. 

* Take a nap in the afternoon; 10 minutes can do the trick if you need one.

* Go for a nice, calm walk outside in nature – a significant source of recovery, being out in nature.

* Breathe a few times a day deeply, drink, go to the sauna or hot tub, or get a massage. 

Any of the above are great ways to recover your body and mind. Make a point of scheduling what’s suitable for you daily and weekly. 

Let us know in the comments below what changes when you schedule your recovery times.