Not feeling like yourself is very unsettling. Embrace the fact that everyone has down days and moments where they don’t feel like themselves. You’re no different than anyone else. The good news is that it won’t last forever because feelings and emotions come and go.
The most important step you can take is to have ideas on hand for when you’re not doing well and need a boost. There’s no reason to immediately force yourself out of your funk. Take your time and listen to what your mind and body are telling you. See what to do when you’re feeling down.
Journal
Writing has been known to help many people in a time of need. It’s good to get your thoughts and feelings written down so you can see them. Read through your emotions and notice if it’s how you thought you were feeling. Get to the root of your feelings through this self-reflection exercise. Many times you’ll be surprised at what you thought you assumed was going on versus what your journal is telling you. Another idea is to write yourself a letter and be honest about what’s going on and what you’d like to see different in the future.
Exercise
There’s nothing better than exercising when you’re feeling frustrated or upset. It’s a positive way to release all of your negative emotions. More often than not you’re going to feel much better and you’ll start to see that you’re strong enough to get through it all. It’s a good idea to force yourself out the door when you’re feeling down, because exercise is one of those activities that won’t have you feeling like yourself again until after you’re done. It’s just as helpful to go for a walk and enjoy nature. Bring along your dog if you have one and enjoy the leisurely stroll.
Get Help
Physical and emotional pain will make you feel down in the dumps. If it’s physical pain you feel, go see your chiropractor and have them take a look at you. Their drug-free approach to healing you is admired by many. If you have neck or back pain, and are taking medication for it, you’re not fixing the problem. You’re merely masking the problem, which can actually make it worse with time. Reach out and get help so you can feel better fast. If you’re dealing with emotional pain, see a therapist who’s perfect for listening and providing feedback to you. It’s up to you to take action and try to find a resolution to whatever it is that has you down.
Talk to Someone
Call a friend or family member when you’re feeling down. Your spouse is also a great resource who’s there to listen and help. Talking it out will help get your feelings off of your chest and clear your heard so you can move forward. If you want them to simply listen and not offer advice, make that clear to them when you start the conversation. Before opening up, make sure it’s a person you can trust with your emotions and that you feel comfortable opening up to.
Challenge Yourself
This may be the perfect time to start a new hobby or make a spontaneous move. Go hiking, take an art class or cook a new meal. Get out of the house and breathe in the fresh air. Step out of your routine and give your brain a new perspective to work with. Sometimes it’s boredom that sets in when you’re going through the same motions each day. Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and participate in a new activity. You may not feel like it at first, but after you’re engaged in the new hobby you’ll likely be feeling very happy.
Eat + Drink Well
A healthy diet is your best friend when you’re not feeling like yourself. It keeps your energy levels high and you’re able to focus. Junk food will be calling your name, but you have to resist. Drink lots of water and tea to keep hydrated and flush out the toxins. Treat yourself by consuming healthy food and drinks that improve your health and happiness. Your mood will rise and your outlook on life won’t seem so bleak. Good food helps your mental health and gives your body the fuel it needs to get through each day. Cooking is also a positive activity that may make you feel better when you’re down.
Take A Break
It’s common to always be on the go. Stop and take a break once in a while. Don’t be afraid to nap if the mood strikes you. It’s important to rest and your body needs it to function at its maximum capacity. Let your mind wander for a while and get caught up in a daydream. Start meditating if you find your thoughts are always racing. Remove yourself from all the chaos periodically and see how much better you feel. Alone time is important for recharging, as long as you get back out there once you’re in a good place. Taking breaks at work also helps you be more productive. When in doubt, take a break and step back for a few minutes.
Let Go
Letting go is very difficult to do, but also extremely necessary. Remind yourself that you can’t always change a situation. Understand what’s in your power to alter and focus on that instead. It’s liberating and empowering when you learn to let go. It’s okay if you have to remind yourself multiple times throughout the day. Living in the past won’t change your future. Tell yourself to focus on where you are in the moment and what you can do to make a difference.
Conclusion?
It’s no fun to be down in the dumps. That’s why it’s important to learn skills that are going to help get you in a better place. Believe in yourself and the rest will follow. This is what to do when you’re feeling down.
Photo by Lydia Harper
Paola Ramirez
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