Snapping out of a funk
We all get a little down sometimes, and it takes a little more time to get up. These feelings can be so debilitating sometimes that accomplishing menial tasks can feel monumental.
Sometimes, there are days when you can push through the darkness and accomplish seemingly “small” tasks. Sometimes hearing from others makes us feel like we are not alone! I was curious to find out what these “little” things people do when they are feeling down that give you a kick out of the rut, so I asked a couple of friends of the blog.
Making the bed
This one is a lot more personal to me. I learnt about this one when I was going through a funk as a PhD student. I had experienced burnout for the first time, and I had no idea what was happening to me. I fell into a funk, and getting up was a chore on its own. I used to watch this TV show called Dex or something like that, and the main character was falling apart. Another lady gave her advice on how to get her life back together, and she said to her, “start by making your bed”. At first, I was just like whatever, until I decided to try it a few days later. It felt like I had achieved something big like I had jump-started my day. I was not tempted to go back into bed as I had made it. It almost felt like a push to start the day, and I could achieve the next smaller challenge.
Tidy up your surroundings (shake things up a little)
My mum always says, “messy room, messy mind”. There’s always something about the feeling you get after a vigorous cleaning session! Sweep up, tidy up or completely overhaul your space. The change and refresh might be the jolt you’re looking for to snap you out of your funk.
Make a music playlist
Music always puts you in a good mood! my personal go-to songs to come out of a funk is Dancing in the moonlight or Champion Sound by Crystal Fighters. Creating a playlist of 10 to 13 songs that lifts your mood comes out to about an hour’s worth of music, and you can turn to this playlist whenever you’re feeling down.
Pamper yourself
Washing your hair can be so therapeutic. A deep condition gives a fresh feel. But you don’t have to end there. Enjoy a nice hot shower and exfoliate, do a face mask, get a massage, give yourself a pedicure and use your favourite lotion or beauty product.
Commit to plans
As humans, we’re social animals. We need some degree of interaction with others to feel our best. That friend you’ve been meaning to meet with for a coffee or just to talk, go ahead and do it. It could also just be a phone call to a friend, your parents for dinner, or simply waving to your neighbour – connecting with others helps us feel more fulfilled.
Get some exercise in
As a person who does not enjoy exercise much, this is not my favourite, but our mental and physical health needs to move our bodies, but it doesn’t mean you have to put yourself through the most intense and vigorous workout of your life. Instead of an intense workout, you can get your dance on whilst making dinner, taking a yoga class or playing with the dog on the floor, or chasing around the cat that won’t stop meowing at your window.
Tap into your creative
Expressing yourself does not always have to be done verbally. Focus on creating something instead. Try journaling or starting a daily gratitude list, honour your feelings through painting, drawing or colouring, try a recipe that you’ve been meaning to make; the list is endless. Creating something engages our brain and helps us feel productive.
