Reducing the Overload: Realign and Reset

Most of us have been in a place of overload at some point but we must learn how to manage the weights and challenges wisely in these days of uncertainty.

It often isn't one singular thing that pushes me closer to the edge. It is usually the extra add-on demands which are manageable in isolated doses but can unexpectedly start clumping together in a downhill rolling snowball effect; a sick child, a broken washing machine, lost keys, a grumpy teenager, a power cut, a blocked toilet.

Perseverance doesn't always require movement. Knowing when to stop is persevering!

During a season of various disruptions and snowball rollers, I confided in a trusted friend that each week's strains and add-ons were gradually becoming more exhausting than the previous one. It was an endless road with no end or relief in sight.

I wanted to thrive but it felt so far out of my reach. I felt stuck on a walker machine using all my energy to stay upright but not getting anywhere.

Reset Wednesdays

My friend lovingly shared how she had restructured her schedule and that Wednesday was her weekly realign and reset day. This one sentence during a 1.5-hour-long call to Australia flipped my perspective and thinking 180 degrees over.

Just as our bodies need rest and recovery, our minds require time to recharge and reset. I know this in theory but I just hadn't managed to break out of my ingrained 9-5 work mode and to-do list-driven habits.

Inaction or a failure to change was a form of self-sabotage: blocking the way forward and preventing me from moving toward my goals. I honestly felt guilty or self-indulgent for considering a 'Reset Wednesday' as an option.

I had to delve deeper into my hesitation.

"Be TRANSFORMED by the renewing of your mind." Romans 12:2

It is incredible how the caterpillar's cells are broken down and rebuilt. Radical transformation!

The verb for transformed here is 'metamorphoo' where the word metamorphosis originates. The picture of transformation is one where you emerge into something new and it is impossible to return to the original form. Biologically the transformation means a greater level of maturity.

Renewing is the word 'anakaínōsis' which means a completion of a process; a renovation or a complete change for the better.

My Dad always says "If you change nothing, nothing changes!" meaning; that if we continue in the same patterns of action and thinking, we will continuously and repetitively have the same outcomes. It is simple but also profound.

Change will not happen without an action of change!

If I wanted transformation or renewal in my life I had to be prepared to take some radical change actions.

Why Realigning and Resetting Matter

Realignment and resetting are not just a luxury, they are a necessity in our overloaded lives. When a car is not functioning well we take it to the mechanic. Sometimes it is just a slight readjustment for the wheels to realign but it makes a difference to engine functioning.

The reality is that the overload constants don't just dissolve or unload by themselves. It is only the result of making intentional and determined changes to gradually lessen the weight and weariness.

Here are a few researched reasons why pausing to reset and realign is powerful.

Resting in the shade at Initao, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.

1. Reduces Stress: Regular breaks can help lower cortisol and stress levels, preventing burnout and promoting a healthier mindset and responses to unexpected curveballs or add-on snowballs.

2.  Enhances Productivity: Stepping away from tasks or work for a while can increase focus and creativity when you return. I tell my kids and students to do this for studying more than I have actioned myself. Pausing and taking a break ultimately improves performance and joy levels.

3.  Improves Emotional Well-being: Taking time out can boost your mood and help manage and reduce anxiety and depression.

4. Promotes Better Relationships:

When you prioritize your mental well-being and thinking space, you are better equipped to engage positively with others.

As an introvert who needs time to replenish and reflect, I have more meaningful connections when intentionally focusing on managing my energy. The overload directly impedes and diminishes the quality of the relationships we say are most important to us.

How to Realign and Reset: 8 Tried and Tested Ways that Work

The metamorphosis process requires change. Not just a few hopeful ideas or a good start without follow-through. It requires a commitment to go through the full process. There is no going back! We must be ready and equipped for everything we are called to be!

1. Schedule Time to Reset and Refocus

I set aside specific times to reset and refocus. Just as our eyes need a break from screens to reduce fatigue and blurred vision, it's essential to take designated time to refresh and renew the mind. It is the same as scheduling a meeting or an appointment. This is an important meeting with yourself and for yourself.

Coffee also helps!

Realignment times don't need a whole day but can be strategically built into the week or daily schedules. I experimented with my routine over several weeks to see how to make lasting changes and eventually found what worked best for me.

I take an afternoon off midweek when I previously used to slump and feel my body and mind dragging. It is just a few hours break but I have more energy and productivity because I am not constantly pushing through regardless.

2. Disconnect from Technology

In our digital age, constant connectivity is draining and damaging. I have to use my reset time wisely by unplugging from screens and detaching from notifications and endless information.

The emails and messages can wait. The problems can wait.

Disconnect from distractions to connect fully with the ONE who is the source of life.

3. Prayer

This is the number one priority but it is only powerful when the first 2 are in place. It is impossible to pray without valuing time, protecting it, and removing the constant interruptions and distractions.

Sharing and directing my thoughts, ideas, and emotions to God is prayer; being still and quiet or becoming more aware that my life and breath are being held precious and treasured.

I pray throughout the day but there are certain times when my heart is pressed in with a specific burden or need. If you see me walking around my garden it is usually an indication of a deeper conversation.

4. Engage in Physical Activity

Physical movement is a great way to release built-up tension. Whether it’s a morning stretch or a gentle walk, moving my body significantly improves my mood and mental clarity.

Movement times are connection and communication with God. As a former dancer, it was a natural language of expression but my joints and limbs are not as flexible in my 40s. Feeling my heartbeat and the various aches or areas of stiffness keep me listening and responding with awareness and responsibility to my needs too!

5. Refresh Outdoors

Frequent access and exposure to nature and green spaces rejuvenate physical, mental and emotional health and are linked to faster psychological stress recovery.

Up in the clear mountain air of Dahilayan, Bukidnon Province, Philippines.

Breathing fresh air in natural surroundings helps me relax. I have always loved looking at trees, fields, waves, and open spaces. My favourite is grabbing the opportunity of a day off to escape on a road trip up to the mountains for some perspective (easier said than done!)

6. Pursue a Hobby

Engaging in activities you enjoy can be a way to recharge. Whether painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, carving out time for other skills and interests provides a much-needed mind refocus.

I started crocheting during the pandemic in the dark long months of lockdowns and struggles with anxiety. Somehow the rhythm of stitches and finger movements also helped lower stress and kept creativity flowing when I felt so restricted.

My Ukulele!

I will include a picture of my ukulele here because research and studies prove the numerous benefits of instruments and music. Learning the ukulele has been prescribed by some doctors and mental health specialists because the melodic tone particularly improves moods and has long-term improvements for immune systems and mental health.

7. Reflect and Journal

I have kept a journal for years. I don't write in them daily but taking moments to reflect, write, and jot down my dreams, goals, prayers, ideas, and thoughts keeps me on track. 

I go back and read them frequently for inspiration, prayer, and direction to make sure I don't get stuck or start drifting.

8. Seek Support

We are created for connection and belonging. Safe relationships without judgement or criticism are vital for flourishing. Sharing openly and safely about challenges and realities can bring much-needed relief.

If you’re overwhelmed and at your edge please don’t suffer, or wrestle alone.

Please don't wait or hesitate to reach out to trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional.

I made this mistake because I dismissed my struggles as inferior compared to the many weighty challenges I knew friends and family were carrying. I didn't want to burden or cause greater strain or worry; yet as I have started to write and share I have received many messages and responses of similar struggles. We share more in common than we realise. Strength is in numbers: given and received from a place of mutual understanding and care.

I hear you, see you and hold space for you!

Remember, connecting with others or taking a reset break is not a sign of weakness. They are proactive steps towards health, fullness, and wholeness. Please take a deep breath, step back, give yourself the time and take one first small step of courage to find the care and reset space you need for however long it takes.

"He leads me beside quiet waters....He RESTORES my soul." Psalm 23:2