The Pressure Valve
blog.migueldavid.euMiguel shares a powerful analogy of pressure values, which can be utilized in keeping us in a more optimal state:
Pressure valves are devices that will release a bit of pressure if it goes over a threshold. They do not let everything go, because that would defeat the purpose of the pressure system. They release just enough pressure, for as long as they need, until the system has a relative homeostasis
A good manager will only say yes to incoming work that the team can handle, acting as a pressure regulator. But also, on a personal level, when your job is too much, the family is too much, life is too much… Taking a day off, a day with no purpose other than being, is the equivalent to opening the pressure valve.
Understanding what activities or choices can act as a pressure value for us personally, can help us quickly get back on track when we feel stress, avoidance, anger, or other emotions that can get in the way of showing up as our best selves:
The valves are different for different people and different systems. Some folks use boxing. Play hockey. Go running, screaming, crying, throwing axes… The most effective pressure valve for you is whatever works best for your internal system.
Identify what’s pressuring you. Then figure out what your valves are. Then start using them. It will likely be the most effective health change you can make for yourself.