Tea for Two

 Resilience can be restored by diet, movement, rest, and relaxation (Patton, 2014).  So today, my three-year-old daughter and I took a "tea break."  Perhaps I'm inspired by the Downton Abbey episode I watched last night (no replies about the plot - I'm three weeks behind).  

Our time for tea today was intentional.  First of all, I'm trying to drink more tea and replaced my second cup of coffee with a raspberry green tea.  Next, I try to carve out time to do just one thing, instead of the continuous multitasking I find myself doing, leaving me often feeling less accomplished and more overwhelmed as a result.  So Vivienne and I drank tea, to which she added saltine crackers (instead of biscuits).  And for five, maybe six minutes, we drank tea.  I might have started singing"Tea for Two" by Doris Day.

A cup of tea helps me warm up before a cold weather run and helps me warm up when I'm done and can't feel my rear or my eyeballs.  Thanks, cold Iowa February, for the opportunity.

Patton (2014) suggests that we watch our sugar and processed food intake, which can weaken our body and can enhance digestive problems often exacerbated by stress.  A diet high in fruits and vegetables as well as healthy fats, quality protein, and food with natural fiber or cultures.  Currently, I'm trying to integrate more protein, coconut oil, and chia into my diet.  I've been realizing how much more protein I need to eat thanks to MyFitnessPal.  If the winter doesn't end soon, I'll have to slather my hands with coconut oil to save my dry and cracked hands. Next, Patton recommends not only exercise, but rest too.  Something I've learned the hard way in my last three years of distance running is that taking a day off is really important for my muscles to recover and prevent injury.  I do a lot of yoga at home and Hot Yoga at a local studio - it helps mentally and physically!  Finally, relaxation restores resilience, such as breathing mindfully, restorative yoga, acupuncture, and massage.  

In conclusion, perhaps tea - in moderation, of course - might be a tiny step in the right direction.  

Reference: Patton, J.M. (2014).  Back from Burnout.  Experience Life, 16, 1, Life Time Fitness.