Five ways to get out of a funk

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Whenever I wake up with a headache, I wallow in self-pity. This morning was compounded by the beginning of DST and I was awake earlier than usual. Irritation easily set in.

I could make a choice. Stay in this mental state or figure a way out.

Here are the five things I did to get out of my funk.

1. I reminded myself that my basic needs (and beyond are being met).

As I sat on my couch cuddled under a blanket with the fireplace going, I reminded myself that I have no reason to complain. 

I have a roof over my head, food in my home, reliable transportation, a job that pays the bills and provides health insurance, more clothes than I need, a modest amount of savings, and a loving and supportive family.

Even though I had a headache, I also had medication to help alleviate the pain. All I had to do was walk to the medicine cabinet to retrieve it, and get a glass of drinkable water from the filter in my refrigerator. 

2. I did a guided meditation.

One of the first things I do every morning is a 10-minute guided meditation. Concentrating on my breathing while letting go of the stress in my physical body has a tendency to bring reality back into focus. 

This morning’s message was about the positivity trap. It’s okay to be positive and optimistic, but I was reminded that it’s also okay to not feel that way. 

In a world that encourages us to “fake it ’til we make it,” it’s more important to feel the feels authentically.

“I always like to look on the optimistic side of life, but I am realistic enough to know that life is a complex matter.” — Walt Disney

And even though it’s important to understand that life is complicated, it’s not okay to stay in that state. The guided meditation was what I needed to move me to a healthier state of mind. 

3. I wrote down three things for which I’m grateful.

I have gotten away from writing down a gratitude list each day. I don’t know why, but it just slipped away. I went back to it after the guided meditation.

My list today: getting an extra hour to my day, the time I get to spend with my grandsons, and the quiet, early morning peacefulness.

A gratitude list is quick and easy. It helps set the tone for the day. It can also be a way to end the day by reflecting on the little things. Whichever way one wants to frame it, it works.

4. I read something that changed my perspective.

I read a lot of different personal development books that help me when I’m struggling. I go to them for sage advice, wisdom, and perspective. 

Another resource is reading the bible. 

“I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little.” — Philippians 4:12

What Paul was saying in this letter is that he found contentment no matter the situation.

Reading this was humbling, because I know that I am incredibly blessed in the life I have been given. I have had an abundant life and this verse reminded me of that fact. 

5. Get outside.

Going for a walk clears the head. Whether I go solo or a walk and chat with my husband, nothing beats a walk. Sometimes the walk is through a nearby park, sometimes it’s a walk through the neighborhood behind our apartment campus, and sometimes it’s a walk through our campus. 

It doesn’t matter where the walk is, it’s about getting outside for some fresh air, conversation, and/or problem-solving.

Nothing beats getting outside. 

Wrapping it up.

While nothing on this list is revolutionary, reminders often help to get us back on track. I had let my gratitude list slip, but now I’m back on board. Hopefully you found something you might be able to use the next time you’re not feeling a sense of contentment.

Until next time…

Be well, friends.

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