Tend to your body, tend to your business. (A little Tylenol for the Soul…)

Interesting fact:

(Have I mentioned that I love random trivia?)

Studies have shown that acetaminophen, the active ingredient in Tylenol, doesn't just dull physical pain: it helps reduce emotional & social pain (ex. shame, heartache) as well, since both pain-types share similar brain-circuitry.

But I'm not telling you this fact so you'll take Tylenol on your next rough day.

(Studies show that acetaminophin also reduces empathy for others, and there are serious, documented physical dangers of over-use.)

Rather, I'm sharing it because it reinforces something I often remind my therapy-clients who are going through a hard time:

Emotional pain and stress are a physical experience, too.

The last few years have involved a series of crises in the country & world; just when our frayed nervous systems are starting to repair from one event, someone or something instigates a new upheaval. 

You don't need me to delve into details or opinions here.

(And I promise that I'm not trying to be a Debbie Downer). 

As a business coach, I think it's important to mention, though. 

Why? 

Because you bring your whole self to your business: your brilliant brain, your purposeful work, your emotions, and your physical body.

The news is heartbreaking right now, and there's plenty to feel outrage, confusion, and concern about. 

(Even if you're muting the news, life still happens; none of us are immune from loss, disruption, or the occasional Really Hard, No Good Day.)

I'm putting on both my therapist- and coach-brain when I ask you to:

Please tend to your nervous-system.

Rest. Eat. Sleep. Hug loved ones & pets. Laugh. Move your body. Dance to loud music.

Limit your screen time. Have a good cry. Watch a Bob Ross painting video.

Do nice things for people. Do activities that induce a “flow” state, like making art or doing puzzles. 

Find a way to give back or help, no matter how small. Go outside.

Stay hydrated. Smooch your partner. Get just enough news you need to stay informed, then get off the phone/tv/social media so you can process it.

Breathe.

Breathe.

Breathe some more.

Also:

Don't stop working on your business. When things “out there” are chaotic, the temptation is to constrict, contract, hunker down, and “wait and see" before taking action.

But even when things feel turbulent, there are still people out there ready to invest in themselves and their results. –And they need you to be there for them to do just that.

The world needs your work.

Tend to your body and spirit, and keep going. 

No Tylenol required.