My Brain's Not Broken

Earlier this week, I wrote about what I do when I’m feeling restless or “off.” I think this self-awareness is important for everyone who is trying to understand themselves in a better way. Getting to know yourself is a lifelong journey, and there are many chances to get to know ourselves in a better way, almost daily. I mentioned that there are some things I try to do when I’m not quite feeling like myself, so I wanted to share them today as a chance for reflection, and hopefully some inspiration to anyone aspiring to do the same!

I meditate/slow down my breathing

I’ve written about before, but (after five or six tries, if I’m being honest) meditation has become something that’s been a great space to release and connect with what’s around me. It also allows me to slow down my breathing, which is something I’ve realized is very helpful when I have anxiety spirals. Making time to focus on my breathing reminds me that I’m a real person, grounds me (as much as possible in that moment) and forces me to slow down in a way I can’t always do another way.

I go for a run

I am a big proponent of physical exercise, in any capacity, as a way to help combat mental health challenges. When I exercise, I want to feel free, open, and to push myself physically so that I don’t have the mental bandwidth to produce the negative thoughts that pop in my head constantly. I’ve tried a lot of different things, but nothing has given me this release like running.

I do a puzzle/word game

It doesn’t happen a lot, but I’ve learned that it’s a lot of fun when my brain works with me and we have fun together. Since the pandemic started, one of the things that’s helped me get back into a rhythm is jigsaw puzzles and word games. They allow me to focus on a goal, and even if I don’t achieve it (my last puzzle took me three months to complete), I know that was time well-spent because it caused my brain to slow down and focus…

I try to focus on one thing

…which leads me here. Sometimes when I’m not feeling like myself, I realize that it’s because my mind is in multiple places at once – and I don’t mean multitasking. Focusing one just one thing or task, especially one of my choosing, lets me feel a little more in control and centered. Whatever that one thing is, it’s getting all of my time and attention until it’s complete.

I lay down

As someone who experiences anxiety and depression, I often don’t feel like myself or comfortable in my own skin. And while I have many tools in my toolbox to try and manage or remedy that, they aren’t always effective. So I lay down, and try my best to rest. Sometimes, weathering the storm is the best thing you can do for your mental health, and rest can often be just the thing we needed.

These are just a few of the things I turn to when I don’t feel like myself, but I know there are plenty more! What do you try to do when you’re not quite feeling like yourself? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!