Recharging
© smiling by notlooking (flickr
This week I’ve been forced to slow down. I thought I was doing well in the run up to Christmas – pacing myself with a mix of social activities, work and studies – and getting ready for a long holiday from New Year. Then bang. I had fever, a sore throat and ached everywhere. I attempted to keep going but soon I was unable to move or act.
I’ve had this experience before – and at this time of year, so I’ve spent some time on my sick bed thinking about it. It seems I had to get flu to give myself permission to slow down. I’ve had an intense year on many levels and I kept thinking it would calm down and I would recharge. It hasn’t happened and I fell into the trap of expecting it to happen despite me. But it’s up to me – I have to pay attention to my energy levels and break the habit of constant activity and movement.
My work and study demands constant transition and I need to build in more time for stillness and reflection. I thought I knew this from my yoga training – but as my life has changed so much this year, it seems I’ve had to relearn and remember. So now I’m going back to bed to try and recharge with some gentle relaxation breathing and hope I’m well enough for the arrival of my family in a few days.
Amanda Stone – Director, Slow Down London
