Madrid & Siestas-Don’t Stop-You Had it Right!
We need to track down whoever it was that created the
40 hour work week and ask “why in the hell did you
do this to us?”. I heard a talk about this very routine
and in other (more balanced) parts of the world people
work less hours and are allowed to take more frequent
breaks. Madrid has has siestas (several hours per day
in the afternoon where everyone has a nap). Now because
of a decline in economy and increase in tourism, the
government is trying to take away the siesta. Even
businesses would close down for several hours every
afternoon. I remember watching an international
real estate relocation show and the couple was walking
down the street during siesta. The street and the
square were desolate, like a ghost town. I fantasized
about living in a place like this where during the least
productive time of day one was encouraged to sleep.
I loved the philosophy and more and more scientists
are testing this theory and proving that a break or nap
in the late afternoon results in more productive and
content employees who burn out less in the long term.
My work ethic has always made me a hot commodity
in the workforce. Unfortunately, my expertise is in
caring for others and I did it so well that I left my
own needs in the dust. I would rush through my lunch
if eating it at all. I would hold it until I literally needed
to pee my pants. Dehydrated and stressed I was too nice
to make myself unavailable.
What if someone needed me right away, I had to be there
didn’t I?
I had a boss that said we were to be available at all times;
we were never to leave the building, ever! I felt like I
was trapped. Once I saw the sun streaming in the window
and opened the door to just feel some fresh air on my face.
I would come home flustered and spent and my husband
said, “do you realize that prisoners get breaks?” He called
and emailed several times a day to check up on me after that
conversation. It worked for about 2 days and then I fell back
into old habits when people started getting annoyed with me
for leaving my post when they needed me. I realized I need
me too. But, unfortunately I didn’t fight for me. It all went too
far.
Today’s focus will be on the importance of taking mental
and physical breaks throughout the day to ensure optimum
health and well being.
Morning Meditation: Chakra Clearing, Cleansing, Energizing
Journal Entry; Today’s journal activity is to document
your day. Write down anytime you take for yourself and what
are you doing? Figure out, in black and white, just how
much of your day entails you working. Now how much
of the day are you caring for yourself or relaxing? You’ll
be surprised by the results.
The Scientific Power of Naps
When students came into my office, panicking about an incident
or an upcoming exam I calmed them down and did this meditation with them.
It was quick and easy but very effective for both the student and I.
Informative Reading & Learning-The Science of Power Naps
http://holistichealthnaturally.com/the-science-behind-power-naps/
Here is Cheryl Richardson’s trans-formative video about her incredible
book The Art of Extreme Self Care.
Evening Meditation:
Take Care of You
Much Love, Peace & Namaste
Em
90 Days to Spiritual Enlightenment 