6 Things to try when you’re feeling flat
We all have those days where we just feel kind of flat. Nothing really seems that exciting or appealing, maybe we don’t have much energy, maybe we feel a little down. These days are normal and we can definitely allow them to be; knowing that they will pass and we will find joy and excitement again. But we can also do a few things to try and help ourselves feel a little more energized, remind ourselves of the good and give ourselves a little bit of love.
These 6 tips are things that I will often try on flat, down days to help myself out and try to enliven myself a little bit. Sometimes only one or two might help, sometimes they might help for a little while and then I return to flat land. It is all fine but I recommend trying these out and seeing if any or all work for you to add a little light to your day. Also keep in mind that each day is different so even if something doesn’t work the first time you try it, it is always a good idea to try it again.
Get outside
This is my number one because it almost never fails to remind me of the magic in the world and to remind me that this will pass. If you can get out into the wilderness that is awesome but even sitting in a park under a tree where you can look up and see the sky through the branches and leaves, or going for a walk around your neighborhood where you can notice the different plants and flowers. Find a way to get out and notice the beautiful bits of nature that surround us. I always feel the most connected in nature. If you can put your bare feet in the soil, grass, or water, even better!
2. Move your body
This doesn’t have to be anything big but I do notice that sometimes on low days, I just need an energy shift and moving my body can do that for me. You could even combine this with getting outside and go for a walk or a light jog. Or you can try just shaking and jumping, stretching, or putting on music and dancing. Getting the blood flowing and the muscles working can do wonders for a low mood and it can also boost your energy. Even if it feels like a drag to get yourself to move because nothing sounds that fun, see if you can force yourself to at least try before you decide it isn’t the day for it. Push through at least ten minutes here before you decide it isn’t working. I often find that it takes me 20 minutes to get into something when I am not in the mood to move.
3. Self care
Sometimes I simply need to feel refreshed on these days. Something as simple as taking the time to wash your face, put some moisturizer on, show yourself some love, can go a long way. Take a shower or a bath, put on an outfit that makes you feel good, make a nice cup of tea. You can set the mood, play some music, light a candle and give yourself a little pampering. It might feel pointless at first but if you take your time and allow yourself to feel the self care and love that you are giving yourself, you might feel a little lighter and fresher. This might take a little experimenting too because self care rituals can look different for everyone.
4. Connect with a loved one or friend
Connect with a good friend or a family member. Call them up on the phone with the intention to check in with them and find out how they are doing or write them a letter if you don’t feel like talking. Placing our attention on someone else, someone that we care about and that cares about us can help remind us that we aren’t alone, that we have support, and that there is more than our own thoughts.
5. Make yourself a healthy meal
Take the time to cook yourself a delicious, nutritious meal. Using your hands and creating something can be therapeutic. You also probably need some healthy fuel to help your nervous system and mood return to a stable place. Sometimes our nutrition alone is the cause of a mood shift or drop. Make sure you are drinking lots of water too as dehydration can also affect your mood. If nothing else you have nourished yourself with what your body needs, shown yourself some real love, and taken the time to focus on something outside your mind. I find that sometimes just taking the time to slow and down and make a real meal can be healing on its own.
6. Gratitude
This is one of the most powerful tools we have available to us at all times. When we take the time to think of all the many blessings we have in our life, all the little things that make our life easier and more comfortable, there is no end to what we have to feel grateful for. Taking some time to write down a list of things you are grateful for (this can be as simple as writing down the foods you eat, the running water in your house, the strong legs you have to carry you, the loving family etc.) or sitting and meditating on your gratitude can do wonders for your mood. Taking the time to truly feel our gratitude, feel the many blessings we have can change the whole body. Having a journal only for gratitude can be beneficial because on days like these you can also look back through your gratitude journal and be reminded of all there is that is good and all you have appreciated and been grateful for.
Remember to always be kind to yourself and allow the natural cycles of life to ebb and flow without placing judgment on them or yourself. Even if none of these help, that’s okay too. Sometimes a flat day is a signal that you are overworking or pushing yourself too much, extending too much for others, or just falling short on your own self care. Your excitement and joy will return. Take some time to rest and allow yourself to be.