What's your unique warning light?

 

 

Perhaps it’s being a little less patient than usual (!). Lacking our usual oomph or the feeling we have less “fuel” in the tank than normal. Maybe it’s not fancying our food or going for the “naughty” options. Sometimes it’s just a vague feeling that “something isn’t quite right”, without being able to put our finger on exactly what that may be. 

 

Or there may be our own particular warning light. A sore throat. Feeling achy or “glandy”. Indigestion. A change in “bathroom habits” as one Client put it so beautifully recently. 

 

You may know exactly what your warning signs are and, just as important, what you need to do to get back on track. More often than not, it’s just a gentle reminder that we need to slow down a bit. Give ourselves a little tlc or “me” time. Some fresh air. Top up on water. Cut down on the caffeine or other treats (!). 

 

Perhaps you hadn’t joined the dots before but, with the power of hindsight, realised the warning signs you were given in the past. The times when you’d taken the hint – hurrah (!) – and times you hadn’t… 

 

Sometimes, it’s a completely new warning light, whether a vague feeling that “something isn’t right” or something more specific. In either case, the answer can often be found by looking back at what may have happened immediately beforehand or in the last few days / weeks. Then, doing a little research or taking some advice. More often than not, a little commonsense will easily resolve the issue once a closer look is taken. 

 

Of course, there are also the so called “red line” symptoms that mustn’t be ignored and a sign that professional assistance is needed NOW. We’re sure you know what they are. Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath. Severe pain, particularly if it comes on rapidly and builds. Sudden dizziness or confusion. A high temperature. Persistent vomiting. And, if you’re worried you’ll miss them, you won’t. They’ll be quite dramatic and, for everyone concerned, can be more than a little frightening. The good news is they are the exception rather than the rule. 

 

So where are we going with this? 

 

Well, it’s just a gentle reminder to be more aware of our bodies and how we’re feeling.  

 

To check in with ourselves from time to time as we go about our day. Is it a “firing on all cylinders” day – hurrah (!) – or one where we need to take things a bit easier?  

 

And, just as important, what hints are we being given about how to get back on track? After all, it’s much easier to give ourselves a little tlc from time to time rather than soldiering on, ignoring the hints our body may be giving us, until medical intervention is the only option. 

 

It’s also a reminder that it’s the little things we do every day, without ever thinking about them, that make all the difference. Positively and less so. In other words, all those lifestyle choices we regularly talk about in this blog. Proactive beats reactive, every single time, whether for you or your car! 

 

As always, the choice is yours.