It can be really challenging to fully relax when you are used to go-go-going all the time, trying to be productive, and get it all done. As an SLP, you are used to trying to hustle to finish the work you have and still have time for other aspects of your life. You are often under strict protocols and productivity standards that give you little downtime or time to pause, so when you do have a chance, it can feel unsettling. You might even find that it takes you a lot of time (which you are already lacking) to switch out of that constant “going” and “pushing” mode, and to simply relax.
That means that time off, weekends, vacations, breaks, and even just the evening after work, might make you feel uncomfortable or you might have a hard time not being productive. It is often easier to just keep going, finding things to fill up the time.
This also keeps your stress response going (which is what makes it so hard to stop rushing in the first place), and builds upon the stress and overwhelm you feel each day.
When you give yourself time to fully relax, you might find:
- you sleep better
- you are able to “let go” of stress easier
- you feel less rushed
- you have more time (or feel like you do)
- there is more ease in your life
One way to help you start to move away from constantly going, and to start fully unwinding is through meditation, specifically a deep relaxation meditation for SLPs, where you focus on fully relaxing and releasing tension in the body and mind.
In addition to a deep relaxation, you could try to incorporate some of these to help further relax:
- Meditate or stretch before going to bed
- Watch/read something soothing and less action-packed (or mentally stimulating)
- Brain Dump journal practice
- Take 10 deep breaths to reset between “tasks” or switching environments throughout the day (or to shift out of a mindset or headspace)
You can access this meditation “Deep Relaxation Meditation for SLPs” in the SLP Toolbox.
The SLP Toolbox is a free resource library full of practical tools to help SLPs reduce and manage stress. Each month, you get a new tool, as well as access to any previously uploaded resource, such as meditation audios.
Not a member? You can join this free resource by subscribing below. You’ll get access to this meditation and more including additional meditation audios, mindful movement audios, and journal and self-care templates.
If you are looking for more ways to put these stress management tools and more into practice, 1:1 coaching is now available and booking for 2021. You can schedule a session here, or fill out the form below to request more info.
Much Love,
Jessi
