10 active recovery practices peak performers employ to deal with stress effectively

In order to perform at the optimal level high performers employ micro-cycles of performance (work, energy usage and stress) and recovery, we call this oscillation.

They either go through the performance period or recovery. There is nothing in between.

Difference between Active and Passive recovery

How nervous system works

What Active Recovery does:

activates the parasympathetic nervous system

provides cognitive shift

provides psychological shift

and therefore has an impact on the reduction and later on elimination of chronic stress.

Ideas for active recovery activities that will help to cope with stress:

spending time in nature

sleep

meditation

mindfulness

breath work

exercise

stretching

myofascial release

yoga

yoga nidra

massage

floatation or isolation tank (sensory deprivation tank)

hot baths

ice baths

cold shower

cryotherapy

sauna

steam room

play

gratitude

social connection