Magna Doodle Mind and the Power of Downstate

Downstate: Why Rest Makes You Better at Everything

Remember Magna Doodles?!

I'm planning my classes for next week - the theme is ' Wipe the slate clean'.

Do you know those days when your mind is so packed with ideas, to-do lists, and/or worries that it feels overwhelming? Our thoughts can feel like the scribbles on the Magna Doodle, lacking the clarity needed to make decisions. Wasn't it fun to slide the Magna Doodle and see everything clear again? Aaaah... so satisfying.

That's perhaps why we love finding some time out - a walk, dip in the ocean and yoga. When we focus on movements in the asana and breath, our minds are given a break from busy thoughts. Then, we can melt into restorative and savasana. It's a little window for the soul to let the analytical thoughts become still.

I'm reading "Power of the Downstate," which helps scientifically validate how essential times of rest and recovery are for us humans.

"The Downstate is a comprehensive term that refers to the wide range of recovery systems you can tap into on a daily basis to restore your most vital functions at a cellular level, including giving your heart, brain, and metabolism a rest; repairing overtrained or inflamed tissue; and allowing time to process some of the more complicated business of being human-your memories, emotions, carefully made decisions, and Aha! moments. The Downstate is also the time for housecleaning the brain's toxic by-products of everyday living. It's your opportunity to plug yourself into a metaphorical outlet and power back up."

Big love, Em x