With a short absence, and August right around the corner itching to get the school year started — a reflection on health is vital before another long journey ahead.
We often push ourselves, which can be a great thing, but when is too much? Well, recently, I learned that not knowing when to stop can be dangerous.
Just think of a laptop. A laptop is a great tool to use to get lots of tasks done, including an essay. However, after using it for a while it often overheats. And if you’re using it without letting it rest to recharge, it might end up dying on you during a crucial point of the writing process.
Now you’re left with the thoughts in your brain and not in your paper, because you didn’t check in on your battery life. This is the same concept I am talking about when I say reflect on your health and the work you have been putting in. I’m not saying in the blink of an eye you’re going to bite the dust, but overworking yourself can make you ill.
After this past school year, I was ready to work out this summer, work full time and squeeze in as many adventures as possible. I didn’t account for how much my body was overheating from being worked so hard and ended up sick during much of the summer.
According to parsleyhealth.com, “Overworking yourself can have serious health implications. A study from University College London found people who worked more than 55 hours per week had a 13% greater risk of a heart attack and were 33% more likely to suffer a stroke, compared with those who worked 35 to 40 hours per week.”
Overworking your body can leave you less protected from airborne illnesses and keep your immune system weaker to fight them off. Knowing when to slow down and speed up is vital to instill a healthy flow of productivity and relaxation for a healthier lifestyle.
A great way to avoid overworking your mind and body is plan a do-nothing day. It could be twice a month, once a week or even a specific day every other week. However it fits best in your schedule, it is important to include it. Giving yourself the luxury to know when you’re able to sleep in and have a day to yourself, when you can fully rest and not have any anticipated tasks, will be a great way to restore your energy and motivation before you burn out.
I was working out every morning, working 10-hour shifts and then going home to make dinner and hang out with my friends. After about a solid two months, I ended my summer with a crazy strong head cold, as well as a sinus infection.
I overworked myself so much I ended up putting my health at risk and kept my butt in bed for three weeks. So yes, order that pizza, binge watch that TV series and wear your sweats all day every once in a while. Don’t run out of battery. Recharge and refresh, so you can conquer again and again.
