Have you ever felt tired, irritable, had difficulty concentrating, or were tapped out in your interactions with others because of the time you’ve spent in virtual meetings? If so, you are not alone!

While there are obvious benefits to the virtual world; such as, enabling safe and accessible ways to connect worldwide, it comes at a cost.

Zoom fatigue (a.k.a. virtual fatigue) happens because of the increased energy spent trying to communicate with others. Our brains must work harder to understand the verbal and non-verbal ques we give and receive online. Additionally, seeing ourselves repeatedly can lead to self-criticism and negative feelings. We are forced to sit still for longer periods. We are expected to be “on” and meet a variety of virtual situations. Lastly, we have to contend with home reality (kids, pets, interruptions, noise, distractions, etc.).

How can you counter zoom fatigue? You could skip a meeting, turn off your camera, take more breaks, and minimize multitasking; however, summer is a perfect time to get outside and recharge. Try these three simple tips: meditating, grounding, and/or walking.

Meditating. A mind, body practice to help you relax. You can do this outside, or by an open window in your home (or your parked car). Start by closing your eyes. Breathe in and out three times; focusing your attention on a longer exhale. Next, tune in to your senses. What do you hear? What do you smell? Now, open your eyes. What do you see? Look about for color, variation, and patterns. What is something that catches your eye and why? Close your eyes again and breath in and out three times. Open your eyes and notice how you feel.

Grounding. A tool to reorient your mind, body, and emotions into the present moment, be aware of your surroundings, and help you to feel less anxious. You can do this outside or inside. Try using your senses to list things you notice around you. For example, list five things you hear, then four things you see, then three things you can touch, two things you can smell, and one thing you can feel (such as warmth of the sun on your face). Describe the various sounds, colors, textures, and scents. Tune in and notice how your mind and body start to relax.

Walking. Mindful walking can be done in a variety of ways to help us remain present and focused on the sensations and rhythms walking provides. Start by tuning in to the natural rhythm of your breathing, and then your body alignment as you walk (your arm swing, your feet placement, etc). Next focus your attention on using your senses to notice what is going on internally and then around you. Repeat this cycle for as long as you are walking. When you are done, take a few deep breaths. You will feel more focused as you get back to your day.

It is too easy to get caught up in the daily demands of life; and virtual meetings have become a new normal. If you want to counter Zoom fatigue; then step outside more often and try meditating, grounding, or walking. You’ll feel more calm, clear headed, rejuvenated, and happy in your life.

There is so much beauty all around us if we take the time to slow down and, “stop to smell the roses,” don’t you think?

(Original Article - Gig Harbor Living Local Magazine, June 2021)