We all know that feeling;
Fuzzy-head syndrome takes over and you can’t see the wood for the trees. Your mind and body feel lethargic and you just can’t seem to get motivated.
It’s so normal, and we’ve all been there. It happens without us realising and can feel like a tricky hole to climb out of. But there is a way, there is always a way!
Here are a few tried and tested ideas to help break the rut, and get you feeling back to yourself again.
Get outside
The phrase stuck in a rut literally comes from feeling stuck, as if you’re frozen to the spot and can’t you can’t move forward. It’s a strong feeling, but remember it’s only a feeling, not reality.
It’s a real case of mind over matter, and having enough will-power to fight the feeling. Push through the lethargy, get up and move. Head outside and take a walk, or jog or run. Fill your lungs with fresh new air and reenergise your body. The saying “blow out the cob webs” exists for a reason, and this is it!
Exercise
Following on from that first point, we all know the benefits of exercise. It’s no secret there are happy endorphins that come from exercising. This can be really helpful when you’re feeling a bit low, as there’s a chemical reaction in your brain that can potentially be rebalanced.
“I really regret working out and nourishing my body” - said no one ever.
Some suggestions are yoga, which gives you chance to nurture your body and have space to breathe. Or join a fitness class to get out of the house, like kickboxing or spin, to raise your heart rate and meet new people. Whatever takes your fancy, there’s an exercise practice out there to suit every personality.
Journal
Ask yourself what feels out of kilter in your life and see what comes up by journalling. Try doing this daily for a few weeks, as you work through what’s going on internally.
Don’t put pressure on having to write anything in particular, just let it be a tap to your mind and see what pours on to the page.
I’d recommend either starting or rounding off each entry with 3 things that you’re grateful for, as this is a great way to boost positive perspective and stay grounded in the present moment.
Make time for things that bring you joy
I know it sounds so obvious, but spending time with your favourite people, focussing on hobbies and watching your favourite Netflix series can really help to keep your energy high. Which, if you’re feeling a bit low in yourself, needs to be a priority. There needn’t be any guilt in making time for yourself, as we all know you can’t pour from an empty cup. You need to look after yourself before you look after others.
Talk to someone
This is so damn important. If you can’t get out of the funk, don’t be afraid to speak up.
Talk to someone you trust like friends or family and ask for their support. Seek out a coach if you need help moving forward and setting goals for the future. Or a therapist or councillor if you need to dig deeper and talk more about your mental health.
Just remember, you’re never alone, and there are always people around the listen and help if you need support.
There’s no shame in asking for help, you are not a burden, you are a human being and we all need a hand every now and again!
Have you got any tried and tested ways to get out of feeling in a rut? Drop them in the comments, I’d love to know!