Deep breathing, pausing, and stretching have been my go-to lately 💜 Even a few minutes helps me reset and keeps stress from building up. It’s a good reminder that small recovery moments during the day really do protect our energy.

@Melissa Baker You're welcome! We are so happy you had fun at the tennis open!

For me it’s screens and caffeine too late in the day — both sneak up on me if I’m not paying attention. When I cut caffeine earlier and put my phone down sooner, I notice my sleep (and next-day energy) are so much better. It’s a good reminder that small habits really add up. 💜

@Melissa Baker I totally hear that — that “second wind” and the urge to do one more thing is a really common pattern (it even has a name in sleep science: bedtime procrastination — when we delay going to sleep even though we know we’re tired because it’s the only time we feel ours). Here’s why it happens and a couple things that genuinely help:• Screens and bright lights stimulate your brain and delay the natural sleep-ready signals your body tries to send at night. Putting devices away an hour or so before bed or dimming lights can make a big difference. • Building a consistent wind-down routine — even if it’s simple stretching, reading, or a warm shower — trains your body that sleep comes next, not one more thing. • Setting a regular bedtime and sticking to it helps prevent that “second wind” from taking over by keeping your internal clock on track. It’s not about willpower — it’s about setting cues that help your body unwind instead of revving back up. 💛

@Kimberly Brown That’s a wise choice, Kimberly 💜 Healing comes first. Rest and hydration are productive right now — you’re giving your body what it needs to come back stronger. Ease back in gently this week and don’t feel pressure to do more than your energy allows. We’re cheering you on and glad you’re listening to your body.

@Melissa Baker That sounds like such a well-deserved rest day! Having a lighter day to watch tennis and listen to your body is exactly what recovery looks like — your muscles need time to repair and rebuild after tough workouts like the ones you had. Taking a break helps prevent fatigue and injury and keeps you ready to come back strong next time. Gentle stretching will feel nice and help ease tightness by increasing circulation and mobility, which can make your muscles feel more comfortable after soreness.

Busy life. Between other business obligations outside Thrive+40, graduate marketing program assignments, and kids’ activities, my schedule feels pretty full. Most nights I sleep well, but the couple of nights each week when I don’t get enough really throw me off and drain my energy. I’m working on protecting my sleep and giving myself grace during these busy seasons.

@Melissa Baker I hear you — inconsistent sleep really does take a toll on your energy and stress systems. Quality rest isn’t just about hours in bed — consistent sleep routines and a calm, cool, quiet bedroom can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep, and help your body regulate stress hormones better over time.