The science of summer overwhelm

Why self care matters more when the sun shines

This week has felt particularly tough - for me personally and for many women I've spoken to across both our community and my friendship groups and working networks. The spiritual amongst us may point towards rare astrological movements. The pragmatists will point to a collective global exhaustion at world events, at economic realities. The weather (we love to complain about the weather!). The overwhelm that comes with routines shifting - even if the shift is supposed to signal rest.

Regardless of the 'why'; we are tired. So this week's journal looks at the science behind the tools that can bring us to 'rest and digest' at pace.

Why do we feel the heat more than our male peers?

• 1. Research shows that our biochemistry makes it harder for us to stay cool in the heat. When coupled with hormone fluctuations, sleeplessness, shifts in cognitive function, cravings for sweet food to mitigate the 3pm dip - all become an added burden to our daily load
• 2. As care-givers, our emotional load often increases in the summer months too. Whether you have children at home during school holidays, family members or neighbours struggling with the heat or even holidays on the horizon, a shift in routine often results in friction around the self-care strategies we have in place to keep ourselves well.
• 3. Seasonal mood shifts happen to around 49% of us without us even noticing. We hear about the impact winter months have on our mood. But did you know that SAD happens in the summer months too? And the challenge with this particular strain, is that it feels so incongruous. It is driven by biological and environmental disruptions including shifts in our circadian rhythm from longer daylight hours, melatonin and serotonin imbalances and the high temperatures that result in a physical and emotional stress in our bodies and minds. 

So how do we keep our cool when we're running hot?

There are many modalities we can explore. But I want to focus on a few smart and fast tools that can help shift our nervous system from 'fight or flight' to 'rest and digest'. Why? Because the last thing you need is another overwhelming list right now. This is what the science says really works:

• 1. EFT / Tapping. We've spoken about tapping in a number of journal entries - including this one HERE. What you need to know is: it works. It's free. And you can start right away. 
• 2. Yoga Nidra. Someone once described this beautiful ancient practice as 'radical rest'. And that has stayed with me. There is something beautifully 'naughty' about stopping to lay on the floor and consciously rest and nourish your body. You can explore a number of free sessions on Insight Timer HERE
• 3. Metta Meditation. This is one of my favourite practices for finding space, love and - through this process - deep restfulness. Read our journal entry and practical guide HERE

But perhaps the most important piece of advice is simply to listen in. When we're weary we run on cortisol. And, although cortisol gets a bad rap, sustained periods fuelled by fear, are not good for us.

You've earned the summer. You've earned space. Take it.