Definition
We feel restless when our mind and body crave change or action but we're stuck without a clear outlet.
>> Why We Have This Emotion
Restlessness is our body’s “move it” signal. It nudges us to explore, gather, or scan for threats. It helps us break up routines and try new things when a situation isn't paying off.
◈ How It Shows Up
“Why is this taking so long?”Fidgeting or an inability to sit stillRacing or scattered thoughtsFinding it hard to unwind or relaxDisrupted sleep patterns
◎ What to do in the moment
Good Ideas
- Tense & relax each muscle group
- Reduce caffeine and notifications
- Paced slow breathing for 3 minutes
- Walk or exercise for 10 minutes
- Tidy up your environment
- Pick just one item to act on now
- 5/4/3/2/1 sensory anchor activity
Bad Ideas
- Force yourself to sit still
- Add caffeine to “use the energy”
- Berate yourself for not being calm
- Start multiple tasks impulsively
- Over-schedule every minute
- Check the time constantly
- Make big decisions while restless