How 5 Minutes Can Change Everything
Ever feel like you’re constantly running on empty? Like the idea of self-care is a luxurious pipedream you might someday get to, perhaps on a long-awaited holiday? We hear you.
We’ve spoken to so many incredible people – from parents juggling six kids and a full-time job to dedicated teachers pouring everything into supporting their students – who feel the exact same way.
The common refrain? "I just don't have the time! If I stop, the whole wheel will fall off."
It's a tough reality. We often see teachers, for instance, push through term time until they're utterly depleted. Then, when the holidays finally arrive, what happens? They catch a cold, a virus, and spend their precious time off just recovering. Their minds and bodies, pushed to the brink, simply give up. It’s a clear sign that something needs to change before we hit that wall.
Beyond Retreats and Massages: Welcome to "Take 5"
We can all dream of serene retreats, relaxing massages, or long meditation sessions. But let's be real: when life gets frantic, finding the time (or the money) for those big wellness treatments can feel impossible.
This is exactly where "Take 5" comes in. It’s about finding those tiny, often overlooked, windows in your day to hit your personal reset button.
Thinking about a mum I worked with, who had six children and a demanding job. Her only true "alone time" was often in her car. So, I suggested something simple: "Before you even get out of the car after work, take five minutes. Just sit there. Take some deep breaths. It’s just you in that space." Giving her an attainable solution.
During a “glimmer seeker” training sessions a teacher fed back that “taking five” had completely changed how she felt, in just a week. She was much calmer, had more energy also saw a massive change in her children.
Another teacher who took 5 mins of mindful breathing before heading into school noticed a positive change in his students. He told us how a certain pupil wouldn’t communicate with him but recently she had started to respond to him. He realised it was down to the fact that he now looked more approachable and relaxed since taking 5.
It was also lovely to see another glimmer* a teacher shared during an "In the Wild" session.
*tiny moment of joy
I remember looking at her during the session, seeing her just enjoying the moment and watching all the children enjoying and participating in the activities. Amazing for her to have this time to just sit still and also reflect on it too.
I also love this photo of Miranda, just chilling for 5 mins on one of visits this month, where we are developing Family Wellbeing Walks for the Canal River Trust.
Giving yourself just five minutes might sound trivial, but it can make an enormous difference. It helps to regulate your nervous system, shifting you into a rest and reset mode; calming your mind and helping redirect energy to where your body truly needs it – like, say, your immune system. This can lead to fewer holiday illnesses and more actual rest – literally from taking 5 every day.
Your Daily Dose of Calm: How to "Take 5"
It doesn't have to be in your car, of course. Maybe it's:
Stepping outside for five minutes of fresh air, feeling the sun or the breeze.
Closing your office door (if you have one) for a quick mental break between tasks.
Pausing before you walk into the house after a busy day.
Reading a book you enjoy, even just a few pages.
Taking a few moments before bed to unwind.
A quick body "check-in" to release any tension, e.g., tense your shoulders, hold, and then release them down.
The key is just a small regular connection with your mind and body.
Even if you only manage one minute today, celebrate it! Congratulate yourself! You just prioritised yourself, and your body and mind will absolutely thank you for it.
Remember, when you feel good, you’re in a much better position to show up for the kids you support, the students you teach, your family, and yourself. Small moments of self-care aren't selfish; they're essential.
What's one tiny moment you can "Take 5" today? Share your ideas in the comments below.
Great job Lau!