‘Pendulum lifestyle’ could be key to juggling daily challenges

Fox News is offering special access to select articles and premium content for those who join their platform. By simply entering your email and agreeing to their Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, you can access this exclusive content for free. If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stuck while trying to achieve work-life balance, experts suggest adopting a “pendulum lifestyle.”

Dr. Jeffrey Karp, a professor of biomedical engineering at Brigham & Women’s Hospital Harvard Medical School, coined the term “pendulum lifestyle” to describe a concept that acknowledges life’s natural ebb and flow. According to Dr. Karp, striving for perfect balance is unrealistic and can lead to anxiety. Instead, viewing life as a pendulum allows individuals to thrive amidst the swings.

The pendulum lifestyle involves daily self-check-ins to gauge physical, emotional, and mental energy levels. By taking small steps to move towards an ideal balance point, individuals can feel more emotionally, mentally, and physically balanced throughout the day. This approach empowers people to take control of their well-being and make intentional decisions to improve their overall state.

For example, if someone is feeling low on physical energy, they can take a short walk or do some stretching exercises to boost their energy levels. Similarly, engaging in calming activities like meditation or listening to relaxing music can help wind down at the end of the day.

Dr. Molly Sherb, an assistant professor of psychiatry, and Dr. Christopher Fisher, a psychologist, both support the pendulum lifestyle as a way to navigate life’s challenges without the pressure of achieving perfect balance. They emphasize the importance of progress over perfection and the ability to adapt to the ever-changing demands of life.

To implement the pendulum lifestyle, Dr. Karp suggests performing a head-to-toe check-in each morning, making necessary adjustments based on your energy levels, and practicing self-compassion and curiosity. By understanding your pendulum swings and making small changes to foster a better balance, you can embark on a lifelong journey towards well-being.

In conclusion, the pendulum lifestyle offers a practical approach to finding balance in an imperfect world. By embracing life’s natural fluctuations and making intentional choices to improve your well-being, you can thrive amidst the swings and lead a more fulfilling life. Join Fox News today for access to this insightful content and start your journey towards a more balanced lifestyle.