Mind the Gap

It was just last year when I became aware of the phenomenon that I like to refer to as "Gap Week" - the week between Christmas and New Years where (according to the Internet) :

"Calories don't count, wine is great for breakfast, and nobody knows what date it is."

There's a reason why memes go viral. It's because when you read that mildly sarcastic, funny text, it resonates with you. There's something that has you respond internally with "I feel seen." And because someone you don't even know gave voice to something you'd already been feeling (but might not have been fully aware of) and, like, a million other people have already liked/shared it, now the sentiment is validated.

I'm not sure if communally we ALL just decided to acknowledge the existence of Gap Week (also known as Twixtmas) in 2023 or if it's been around for longer than that, but I, for one, am a fan.

The New Year (and all of its associated resolutions) is right around the corner, so why not wallow in the opportunity to lose ourselves in purposelessness for a moment?

Certainly, this Lifestyle choice may not be for You.

Maybe there are work obligations that make this impossible, or maybe you're the type who thrives on a schedule. But either way, even if this ISN'T the week that you're exploring your couch in new ways and binge-watching a series or four on Netflix, there will probably be a time that you do this in the future. As your friendly mind/body exercise Jiminy Cricket, I'm here to cheer you on for ALL of your life choices, and offer some helpful suggestions about how you can maximize every single aspect of the experience. Rest periods are essential to help your body regenerate and rebuild. Releasing you from the drive of your schedule, putting your goals on the back burner, and letting your "less than best self" have its moment in the spotlight. Put your aspirations aside for a moment - you are already enough, just as you ARE.

The "Downsides" of Couch Time (And Why They Might Not Matter)

Let's contemplate the possible downsides of spending the better part of a week on the couch, eating mindlessly and not replying to texts/emails, and what you can do about them:

People might get hurt if you don't respond.
- Unlikely. Unless it's a life or death matter, you can always pick up the ball in January and just let them know that you weren't available last week. ( pro tip : use your email auto-responder to make this look like a professional choice)
You might gain weight/lose muscle mass.
- Likely, but this change is most likely temporary. Bodies have "set points" that they will naturally return to as soon as you resume your regular schedule/activities.
Your house will look like a mess.
- Absolutely, unless you take the time to clean it. And whether you do it this week or next, the formula is simple and proven. Stop worrying unless it bothers you.
You'll start to ache.
- And THIS is where I come in.

The Science of Slouching: Understanding "Creep"

Let's talk about something called "Creep" - and no, I'm not referring to that one person who keeps texting you during Gap Week. I'm talking about what happens to your body when you stay in one position for extended periods.

Creep occurs when your body's collagen fibers (think of them as the stretchy support bands in your muscles and connective tissues) slowly stretch out when held in one position - like when you're curled up in your favorite corner of the couch. This process can begin in as little as 2-5 minutes of holding a static position. It's similar to what happens to an old elastic band that's been stretched for too long. It doesn't automatically "snap back." Instead, everything feels achy and somewhat fragile, leaving you unsure if your tissues can actually support your body weight as it moves through space.

You might notice this sensation most prominently after a deep sleep where you barely moved - that morning stiffness is often the result of creep. Interestingly, you might feel less stiff after a restless night because the frequent position changes help prevent this prolonged tissue stretching.

The "Sweatflix" Solution

The good news? Your body is remarkably resilient. Just like that elastic band will eventually snap back (mostly), your tissues will recover. But if you want to avoid that "I've turned into a human version of the Mummy" feeling during your Netflix marathon, here's a super simple "Sweatflix" routine you can do during your inevitable trips to the bathroom to keep the Creep at bay.

Important Note: This routine isn't about "getting in shape" or "offsetting holiday indulgences" - it's simply designed to help your body manage long periods of stillness it might not be used to. Please modify or skip any movements that don't feel right for your body. As always, if you're experiencing persistent discomfort or have any medical conditions, consult with your healthcare provider before trying new movements.

For those interested in the science behind tissue creep and its effects on the body, check out this excellent article by Jules Mitchell.

We all have those days (and hopefully, the luxury of a week) spent doing absolutely NOTHING at some point in time. Whether you choose to embrace Gap Week now or save it for another time, remember that rest isn't just about physical stillness - it's about giving yourself permission to exist without purpose or productivity. Your body knows how to take care of itself, and sometimes that means moving a little bit, even during your dedicated time of doing nothing.

Now, back to your regularly scheduled programming. Your couch has never felt so wanted, needed and loved.

Domini Anne

P.S. Speaking of "last calls" (which usually happen well before Gap Week begins), here's a real one: I'm retiring my athletic wear collection on New Year's Day. So if you've been eyeing that perfect pair of fancy pants to start 2024 in, this is your final chance to snag them! Once they're gone, they're gone - though let's be honest, you probably won't need them during Gap Week anyway. 😉

Domini Anne

Mind the Gap

We All Need Some Body (parts) to Lean On

Where it's At

Head Space