October 2022 Wellbeing Newsletter | On the Goga

Getting Comfortable WITH DISCOMFORT

Reimagining

Getting Comfortable WITH DISCOMFORT

Discomfort is a part of life. It can show up in small ways, like a rush of nerves before we merge in traffic, or in big ways, like sleepless nights as we prepare to make a big life change. Regardless of how or when it shows up, we all experience discomfort throughout our lives.

Discomfort is our body's reaction to stressors and can include a range of physical sensations such as sweating, nervousness, increased heart rate, restlessness, and irritability. Naturally, discomfort is designed to motivate us to take action to resolve or minimize these unpleasant sensations.

We all react to discomfort differently at different times We might try to avoid the discomfort by ignoring or putting off the situation that is causing it. We might face it head on. We might engage in coping behavior like meditation or reaching for that late night snack.

While discomfort can feel like the enemy, it's actually a helpful and important signal from our brain that, once we come to understand it, can guide us in healthy ways.

A helpful first step to moving through discomfort is to ask ourselves: where is this discomfort arising from? Maybe it's clear: you ' re feeling tired because you didn't sleep well Maybe it's more nuanced: you ' re anxious because you ' re going through a period of uncertainty.

Identifying the source of our discomfort can help our minds to become less reactive. By labeling it and identifying the source, we gain some sense of control over it And often, we realize that our discomfort doesn't post an existential threat

From here, we can ask ourselves the next question: what is this discomfort moving me towards? Think about something as simple as a physical workout: while the act of exercise is uncomfortable, the discomfort arises from our body gaining strength and endurance, and the desire to be strong and healthy may be a worthy motivator

Sometimes however, in becoming aware of our discomfort, we realize that it isn't moving us towards something we value. In these cases, we can look at discomfort as a helpful signal that we need rest, time to recharge, or even make a larger shift in our lives.

Experiencing and embracing discomfort however, takes work Our culture often tells we need to "just push through " But just as discomfort plays an important role in our lives, so does comfort and rest

Comfort allows for rest and healing, which is just as essential as discomfort in maintaining your well being. Just as discomfort looks and feels different to each of us, so does comfort. One way to practice comfort is through "Hygge" (pronounced: Hoo ga). Hygge is a concept of living derived from the Danish. It encompasses a feeling of cozy contentment and well being through enjoying the simple things in life

As you try to incorporate more creativity in the work that you do, don’t try to force the process. We are all naturally creative problem solvers. Our ability to problem solve with creativity is the reason people have managed to survive and adapt to their environment for all of human history. Try being open to new ideas while looking for solutions to problems that arise. With an open approach, you are far more likely to identify processes that streamline your work, as well as the work of your team, and potentially make your work a lot more enjoyable too.

Put it to practice:

What's one way you can practice cultivating hygge this week?

How do I know the difference?

WHEN TO EMBRACE COMFORT AND DISCOMFORT IN LIFE

Sometimes it can be hard to tell whether we need comfort or discomfort The trick isn't about making the "perfect" choice, but rather making the choice that makes the most sense for you in the moment

DISCOMFORT CAN HELPFUL WHEN…

You're trying something new

Embrace the beginner's mindset. By engaging with something new, it's possible to look at old problems in a new way and discover new solutions.

COMFORT CAN BE HELPFUL WHEN…

You need a physical break

If you have just done something physically challenging and begin to run out of energy, slowing down and stretching can be a great way to give yourself a break during or after a workout.

You need a mental break

You are establishing a healthy habit

Getting into a routine is challenging, but the discomfort can be a signal that you are achieving growth as you work towards a goal.

You're working on improving a skill

This could be a hobby like gardening, or a life skill, like organization. Picture how this skill will benefit you. Keep the end goal in mind to stay motivated through discomfort

If you have been doing something mentally taxing and are beginning to have difficulty concentrating or feel worn out your mind is signaling it has reached its limit, it’s time to rest!

You've experienced discomfort

If you ' ve experienced a state of discomfort for an extended amount of time, persisting through it while your mood is negatively affected can halt any progress you are making, take a moment to rest and reset.

MONTHLY RESOURCES

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A Meditation for

SITTING WITH DISCOMFORT

Many emotions can arise when we are facing uncomfortable or challenging situations. We invite you to take a few moments to get comfortable with discomfort by meditating on and breathing through these feelings.

LISTEN HERE

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