Returning to Work with Ease

Hi there. It's Eve here. Welcome to this guided practice designed to help you feel a sense of calm and ease as you return to work. Whether you've been away from work for health reasons, your family, or for personal reasons, returning to work after a leave of absence can bring up a whole range of emotions. I remember when I had to take a leave of absence. I felt a lot of nerves going back to work. I thought some people may even judge me for being away, and I felt some guilt at missing work. I reminded myself though, that I needed that time. I never thought I would have to take a leave of absence from work, but we don't know what's around the corner, so this really could happen to anyone. If you are feeling nervous about returning to work, please know you're not alone. There may also be some excitement. Getting back into a rhythm with work can feel really good. And of course, making connections with colleagues can help us to feel a sense of community. I wanted to create this exercise as a way to help you manage any nerves and stress associated with going back to work, but also share some ways to mindfully communicate your needs to those people you work with. Your life may have changed quite significantly, so being clear about what you need can really help the transition back to work. It's completely natural to feel some uncertainty as you navigate this transition, and it's okay if you don't have all the answers yet. My intention is that this practice will help you find clarity in how you communicate with others, and remind you that prioritizing your wellbeing is an ongoing practice. So let's get started. Take a moment to get into a comfortable position, either sitting down or lying down, and resting your hands in your lap or down by your side. And if it feels comfortable, closing your eyes or softening your gaze, and taking a couple of slower, deeper breaths to help settle the mind and body. Breathing in through the nose and gently out through the mouth. And again, breathing in, feeling your lungs expand, and then breathing out any tension, any pressure you might be carrying about returning to work. And with each breath, allowing yourself to settle into this moment, letting go of what's ahead, letting go of what's behind resting here in the present moment. And then breathing at your own rhythm and rate and gently guide your attention to your body, noticing the sensation of your feet against the floor, the different contact points, your whole body being supported. Relaxing the shoulders, softening the jaw, even relaxing the hands. And no need to force relaxation to happen, instead, it's an invitation to release a little. And then gently resting your attention back on the breath. With each inhale, imagine your breathing in a sense of calm and ease. And with...