A Gentle Routine for When You Are Feeling Overwhelmed
When you are feeling overwhelmed it can be more difficult to make everyday decisions.
Forcing yourself to keep up with your regular routine when you are feeling overwhelmed will often lead to you falling deeper into your feelings, which in turn means it will take you longer to get yourself back up and running in your usual manner. There is no shame in feeling overwhelmed, it is a very normal part of life and it can teach us many lessons. It could be an indicator that your current lifestyle needs some alterations, it could also mean that you are just not feeling 100% and need to slow down for the time being. When we are feeling overwhelmed it is important to take small and gentle steps towards working through the feelings and address the reasons why we might be feeling overwhelmed.
Ditch the todo list
When I am feeling overwhelmed, the last thing I need on my mind is a to-do list. The most important thing to do is keep up with the basic tasks that help you through your day e.g. shower, brush your teeth, get dressed, eat, where possible take it easy at work. When you are feeling overwhelmed, you don’t need to worry about reading 10 pages of your book, exercising twice a day, responding to every message, etc. these activities will all be there for you when you are feeling better and you are no less of a person because you do not accomplish all of these things in a day.
Have a go-to outfit
When you are feeling overwhelmed it can be more difficult to make everyday decisions. Having a go-to outfit that makes you feel comfortable and safe can be a huge help. Make sure it is an outfit that you know suits your personal style and your body so you don’t have to stress about feeling uncomfortable.
Spend time with a furry friend
My furry friend comes in the form of a small terrier, she always listens to what I have to say and is just as comfortable sitting in silence with me. She gives wonderful cuddles, and is a lot of fun, especially when she has her favorite toys around. Having a furry friend to help during times when you are feeling overwhelmed can be very therapeutic. They are very good at reminding us to take pleasure in the simple things in life and to slow down and be present.
Talk to a friend and/or family member
Sometimes the greatest relief from feeling overwhelmed can simply be talking to somebody about how you are feeling. More often than not, I find having a sounding board to listen and offer suggestions on how to alleviate my feelings of being overwhelmed can help reduce them dramatically. It is so easy to get stuck inside your own head, and forget how helpful just talking about our feelings can be.
Go for a walk
I know this is so cliche, but going for a walk in nature is scientifically proven to be one of the best ways to gain mental clarity. Going for a walk when you are feeling overwhelmed will help clear out the cobwebs and provoke thoughtfulness. Make sure you are disconnected, don’t use your phone or listen to music/podcasts and be one with your thoughts. You may come across some confronting thoughts along the way, let these thoughts come and let them pass, don’t react to them just let them be as they are. If you have any wonderful ideas and feelings, write them down when you return from your walk.
Feeling overwhelmed is our mind’s way of telling us that something is not quite right at the moment. It is important not to ignore these feelings in case they escalate and become even more difficult to manage. Listen to what your mind and body need in the moment, and do not push yourself in the same way you usually do. Following a gentle routine during these times can give you the time and space you need to work through your feelings and figure out what you may need to alter in your current lifestyle to avoid constantly feeling overwhelmed.
