We all have those days when even getting out of bed seems like a chore. And while it is important to feel what you are feeling and allow yourself some downtime, there comes a point where you just have to pick yourself up because you have work to do. For those days, when I would rather curl up in bed and forget that I have responsibilities, the following things help me from slipping into a rut and feel a little more put together.
- Eat a heavy meal:
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If you are feeling low and out of it, one of the main reasons for this may be that your body is not fueled with enough energy. Having a heavy, nutrient-packed meal when you are feeling sluggish can be just the perfect pick-me-up that you need. It is like getting a caffeine boost but with healthy food instead. Eating a hearty bowl of some food instantly boosts my energy and keeps me from crawling back into bed. And while we’re discussing food, I should add that chugging on a huge glass of water may also help with relieving headaches, especially if your head is heavy from oversleeping.
- Clean your room:
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At the risk of sounding trite, I want to say that I am a firm believer of the “messy room, messy mind” theory, which basically says that your room is a reflection of how messy your state of mind is. So, the first thing I do when I feel like I am slipping into a slump is take charge and clean my room. This includes changing my sheets, doing laundry, taking out the trash and organizing the drawers. This takes about 30 minutes of my time, but the end result of having a clean and organized room puts me in a much better headspace.
- Take a long shower:
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Even after eating and cleaning your room, if you still feel unmotivated to do anything, your best bet is to take a long, relaxing shower. Something about taking a hot shower is so therapeutic. I am sure this has been said before, but the act of literally cleansing your body can also give you a chance to imagine you are metaphorically cleansing away the negativities. Showers can help you feel cleaner and more put together, almost like a whole new person, and sometimes that is all you need on a bad day.
- Go for a walk:
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Going for a quick walk (even for five minutes) can help you clear your head. Something about the change in scenery and the fresh air really helps calm your mind. This advice is reiterated by many experts and I find it almost always works. The change of space also helps me change my thoughts and get a newer perspective on my problems. Making a quick to-do list while you are outdoors is also a good idea.
- Get some rest:
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If you follow all these tips and nothing seems to work, it is evident that you need a day of rest. It is important to not pressurize yourself to feel motivated and productive all the time. If you think that despite all of your efforts, a day of rest can do you good, especially if you are mentally and physically exhausted, you should not feel guilty about taking some time off and unwinding. Resting can in fact help you be more productive, later!