No doubt, life can be demanding. There seems to be so much to do and not enough time. We have to go to work. Pay the bills. Take the kids to practice. Check in on Mom and Dad. And make sure we get our yearly check up.
The problem is that so many of us are in a perpetual state of go. But sometimes we don’t recognize it. This is because we have a way of convincing ourselves that we are just fine and everything happening around us is the problem. I understand. This happens to me when I’m out of alignment. I think I can just keep going and going. I think a lot of us feel this way, right? Not. Why? Because we are humans. We are not human machines. And when we keep going and going like a hamster on a wheel, it causes problems. We can get out of alignment. When this occurs, it not only affects our functionality but also our mental well-being.
The good news is there are 5 signs when you’re out of alignment and helpful solutions to remedy the problem. Let’s take a closer look at what they are.
1. Irritability
If you find yourself having a short temper, feeling annoyed, and lashing out at others, this could be an indication that you are out of alignment. When your nervous system is dysregulated, it can induce emotional reactivity and sensitivity. It can also heighten your stress responses.
So, what might be a solution(s) to remedy this problem? First and foremost, try to incorporate mind-body practices such as mindfulness and meditation practices into your life. Second, find ways to reduce stress in your life. For instance, stop taking on more responsibilities and projects as a way to reduce your stress load. Third, to reevaluate your relationships. If you feel someone in your life is affecting you, you might reconsider having a friendship with them. Also, make it a point to take breaks throughout your day so you can re-energize yourself. And finally, start making changes with your diet and exercise.
2. Fatigue
There is a difference between feeling tired versus overtired. When you are in a state of fatigue, you are overtired. Your energy levels are low, and you feel exhausted. You might also feel weak, weary, and lethargic. This is a clear indication that you could be out of alignment. A solution to this problem might be to focus on improving your sleep by creating a sleep schedule or nightly routine. For instance, try to go to bed every night at the same time, if possible. Or, reading a book and listening to soft music before you go to bed as a mechanism to relax your body. If possible, make it a point to get seven to nine hours of sleep every night. You might also consider doing some form of exercise during the day to get a better night’s rest. And limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, especially before you go to bed. 
3. Depression
Being out of alignment can contribute to depression by producing stress and unnecessary tension in the body. It can also adversely affect your hormones and your neurotransmitters by causing them to misfire. When this occurs, it can impact functionality, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and despair. What can be done to counter the effects of emotional misalignment? Seek professional help by working with a therapist or mentor to help you process emotions and learn coping mechanisms. You might also consider journaling as a mechanism to process your emotions and identify what might be causing you to be out of alignment. Consider finding a support group to participate in. Lastly, focus on a good diet, exercise, and sleep.
4. Concentration
We are presently living in a society where we are being bombarded by technology and social media. As a result, we can feel scattered. It can also cause our mind to wander, become easily distracted, and prevent us from being able to complete tasks. So, what might be a quick fix to remedy this problem? How about setting your intentions for the day? For example, “Today I will focus on being calm and peaceful.” It might also be a good idea to write down two goals for the day as a way to maintain your focus and concentration. Make sure to take small breaks throughout your day when you can. And when you find you’re having difficulties concentrating, make it a point to be kind to yourself.

5. Breathing
When we experience stress, the body releases adrenaline. When adrenaline courses through our veins, it causes rapid breathing. It also causes our body to go into fight or flight mode, which leads to shortness of breath. What is a solution to this problem? Consider doing a daily meditation focusing on your relaxation and breathing. You can start with your head and work down to your toes. For instance, “Breathe in, I am calm.” “Breath out; I am calm.” Do this until you reach your toes. As you do this, focus on your breath. In doing so, it will have a calming effect. You might also recite positive affirmations throughout the day with an emphasis on your breath. For instance, “I am peaceful and relaxed as I breathe in and out.” And finally, try to slow down. You don’t have to keep running.
See you next month!
