I've been thinking a lot recently about the difference between being drained and feeling refreshed. I'm not talking about that thing where you're so tired from working hard all day that all you want to do is curl up in bed and sleep for a million years (which is totally natural, by the way). I'm talking about when it feels like there's just no life left in you—you're exhausted in an emotional way. When this happens, sometimes it takes more than just taking a nap or eating some ice cream (though those are great ideas too!). You need to reset your body and mind if you want to come back feeling energized again!
Here are some suggestions for how:
Mama, 3 Signs It May Be Time To Hit The Reset Button
● You’re feeling overwhelmed.
● You feel like you’re not doing a good job.
● You feel like you’re not measuring up to your own expectations.
A few ways to reset when you're feeling burnt out:
When you feel like you need a reset, these are some of the ways I've found to refresh and recharge.
● After the kids are in bed, take a bath. Put on some relaxing music and light a candle or two and let the warm water soothe your muscles for at least 20 minutes- enjoy that quiet time.
● Take a walk outside in nature (or even around your neighborhood). This can be especially nice on cold winter days when it feels like there's not much else to do but get out into the elements. If this is not possible where you live, go to an indoor mall or other open space with plants or trees that are lit up with Christmas lights!
● Meditate for 10-20 minutes before bed every night—and try not to sleep through it! It doesn't have to be fancy: just sit still with your eyes closed while focusing on breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth until the timer goes off. You'll be amazed by how much more restful this makes falling asleep feel compared to lying awake worrying about all sorts of things that might happen (or didn't) during the day/weekend/month/year past or coming up next week/month/year etc.
There are many ways to take care of yourself:
● If you're feeling overwhelmed and need a break, do something you enjoy. Go for a walk, read a book or watch a movie.
● Spend time with people who make you feel good. Being around others can distract us from our stressors and give us the energy we need to keep going at work or home.
● Take care of yourself by getting massages and taking baths or bubble baths when needed. Massages help relieve tension in your muscles while also helping your body relax; likewise, baths can help soothe sore muscles after some heavy lifting!
But don't worry about it too much. Many of us are struggling with the same thing, and you're not alone!
Danyale Duncan
Springfield, Ohio