I‘ve been in a funk. There’s anger and frustration about things happening in the world. There’s sadness from getting laid off. Loneliness from moving to a new city. Stress as we navigate these uncertain times. I believe that somehow we’ll all get through this season (and 2020), but I still have days when I just feel sad. Nights when I find comfort eating an entire pint of pistachio ice-cream (after my husband goes to sleep). Moments when I see others thriving and then question what I’m doing with my life.
I have to remind myself that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. But instead of having a pity party, we can create habits that help us get through each day. Resilience means having the courage to live fully, even when we’re dealing with some challenges.
Are you in a funk too? Friend, this post is for you. And for me.
8 Practices that Help Make Getting Through Each Day Easier
1 // Be kind to yourself. Everyone’s journey looks different and comparison steals your joy. Know that you are awesome. You are enough. You are loved. And you are going to get through this season. How we think about ourselves affects how we treat ourselves. Instead of self-pity, be kind and practice self-love.
2 // Start a daily routine. There are mental health benefits of having a daily routine. It helps us cope with change, form healthy habits, and can reduce stress levels. Having regular activities can also help prevent you from getting stuck in a procrastination vortex.
For me, I start the morning with a workout or walk. It improves my mood and helps jump start my day. Then I dedicate time to applying for jobs (while making sure to take mental breaks), and then dedicate my evenings to working on creative projects and activities I find stimulating and enjoyable.
3 // Do the dishes and take out the trash. Waking up to a clean space can improve our mood. The sight of clutter, piled dirty dishes, and an overflowing trashcan might seem trivial, but cleanliness affects your mental health. Before the end of the day, I take a moment to tidy up my kitchen and living spaces while watching a show or listening to a podcast.
4 // Cook yourself a nourishing meal. Taking care of ourselves starts from within. It’s okay to occasionally binge on cookies and cinnamon toast crunch, but make sure you’re also getting the nutrients your body needs. Start a new Pinterest board and fill it with actual recipes you want to try at home. It’s the perfect time to experiment!
5 // Go on walks. Sometimes when I start to feel all these funky emotions, I realize it’s when I’ve been cooped up inside all day and haven’t taken a mental break. Sometimes we just need some fresh air and get some movement in.
6 // Call a close friend. We were created for connection. Reach out to a friend for a phone date or schedule time to get together in person. We need support and other people to remind us sometimes that we’re loved and not alone.
7 // Treat yourself to a home spa day. Sometimes a little self-care/pampering session at home goes a long way to lift our spirits and de-stress. If its something you forget to do, put it in your calendar and create reminders.
I love lighting a candle, giving myself a facial or face massage, and face masking while listening to happy tunes.
8 // Practice gratitude. We seem to have a natural disposition to be overly critical of ourselves or focus on the things we don’t have. If we develop the discipline to focus on the things we’re grateful for (including the things that we often overlook and take for granted), it can shift our perspective. Taking a few minutes a day to reflect on the things we’re thankful for can affect our outlook on life.
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