10 Things To Do if You’re Feeling Run Down

Image taken at David Hockney’s Arrival of Spring Exhibition 

I’m not sure what’s been going on lately but I’ve been feeling run down and out of sorts. Like a dripping tap, my brain just won’t stop and consequently I feel exhausted and a tad overwhelmed by even the smallest tasks.

It doesn’t feel like anxiety, although over the years it has manifested itself in different ways. I just can’t put my finger on it at all.

I mentioned this on Instagram lately, and a few people commented that they were feeling the same. The weather, world events, Stranger Things withdrawal perhaps? Either way my adult life skills (have you seen the Brit film by the way?) have been lacking somewhat.

In an effort to do something positive and in case you need a little help too, here’s 10 things* that might help to put the spring back in your step.

*because I really don’t need an extra long list of things to do. 10 will do for now!

1| If everyday tasks are difficult promise to give yourself a reward after. I’m not talking diamonds but a slice of your favourite cake, a manicure, or 10 minutes quiet time might help you focus, perhaps?

2| Exercise outdoors. Running might not be your thing, and you know I’ll always recommend quad skating but there’s other outdoor exercises you can do to help get your daily dose of Vitamin D. Why not try proline skating, hiking or climbing? Something that could potentially turn into a hobby and take your mind off the crumby stuff.

3| Talk to friends. When you work out you’re not alone in your feelings, things already begin to feel better. Let people know you’re not feeling your best, especially those closest to you.

4| Ask someone else in your household to help with everyday chores. When I know I’m having a busy week, we sometimes buy a Hello Fresh box which has every meal (healthy too) delivered to your door ready to cook. I can’t afford to do this every week but it really helps whenI  don’t have the energy to work out what to eat each day.

5| Have your favourite things on standby. What’s your comfort? Mine is Lord of the Rings, my dressing gown and Polly sleeping by my feet. Do things that make you happy.

6| Learn to say no. If you’re struggling with the everyday things right now, taking on more responsibilities won’t help. No isn’t a bad word.

7|Keep things tidy. I struggle to keep the house in order (only tidy when we have visitors!) but it really does help my mood when things are ship-shape. Aim to tidy up in the evenings so you wake up to a tidy home.

8| Play with your pets. We all need some silliness to put things into perspective.

9| Don’t feel guilty for cancelling plans. People who care about you will understand. Try to get out and be sociable as much as possible but don’t feel bad if it’s all a bit too much.

10| Silence your phone. I swear by this. It helps me feel less distracted and most of the time I know when to expect a phone call. Nowadays, there’s a pressure at being ‘on call’ 24/7 and there’s simple no need for it.

Finally, trust that it will pass in time and try not to feel guilty about not being yourself. I’m taking it day by day and planning to reward myself with a large cappuccino and magazine marathon session later today.

How do you get yourself out of ruts like this?

Disclosure: Collaborative Post