How To Recharge After A Gloomy Day

This article discusses mental health in a very broad spectrum. If you or a loved one need support for mental health issues, please seek advice from a licensed medical professional. The Canadian Mental Health Association has a hotline (416) 646-5557. You can also use Layla to match with a Licensed Therapist in Toronto. 

Run-down, tired, and maybe a little sad, you’re just having a gloomy, uninspiring day. We’ve all been there. And though feeling sad might not seem fun, it is helpful. Sadness is a valid and useful emotion, signalling that we need to be treated differently (by both ourselves and others_. So pour yourself some tea, grab a soft sweater, light a candle, and settle in for some self-care. 
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How To Rest and Recharge

Meditate

Meditation is a powerful tool for calming the mind. If meditation doesn’t come naturally to you, try a guided meditation (we love Gabby Bernstein). Or, if meditation really just isn’t your thing, put your phone away, and try to concentrate on just one fun/creative activity at a time (like coloring, painting, or writing).

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Gentle Movement

If the blues have left you hunched over, you might want to try some light movement. Yoga, stretching, a nice walk, or dancing around the house are all low-impact ways to get your body moving, and shake off those low-vibes you’ve been carrying around. 

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Cozy Night In

Not that you need an excuse for an evening of self-care, but what better timing than as a gloomy day pick-me-up? Instead of seeing a night in as a waste of precious time, embrace the opportunity to clear your calendar, cozy up in some cashmere, brew an herbal tea, and grab a great book/movie/journal.

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Phone A Friend

If you’re feeling down, phone a friend (or your mom, or your aunt). Chances are, a quality BFF chat will get you feeling warm, fuzzy (and laughing). And if not, friends are great listeners. If you want a stronger connection, set-up a video call. It’s amazing how facetime/skype/zoom can make you feel less alone. 

Rest Is Best

Ultimately, rest is best. If your body says it’s run-down, listen. Run an epsom salt bath, get your favorite movie going on Netflix, and best of all: settle down for an early night’s sleep. 

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Plan Ahead

Take just a few minutes to get one step closer to a goal. You don’t need to erase or fix the whole day, but it’s easier to bounce back from a tough day if you’re consciously moving yourself forward. If there’s a task you can cross off your list in under 5 minutes, do it now! Or spend a few minutes organizing your to-do list, so tomorrow you can jump right in. It’s amazing how even 5 minutes of productivity can boost your mood.

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Clean

If you’re home for the night, it could be the perfect time to tidy. Put on some comfy sweatpants, put on a great Spotify playlist (or Netflix rerun), and go through your house. Taking the time to take care of your space is a great way to practice gratitude, and see little things that make you happy.

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Give Back

When you give to others, you give to yourself. If you’re feeling down, focus on bringing someone else up. Plan a giveaway for your followers, follow a fan, or treat a friend to coffee. The more creative your action, the better you’ll feel.

The Difference Between Sadness And Depression

There is a line between sometimes-sadness and depression. If you or a loved one is struggling with any kind of mental health issue, the Canadian Mental Health Association offers help and support both online and at (416) 646-5557.