Simply Sophie

It was the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

My mom had left. My friends were out of town or on their way home. Elliot was at work.

The work week was creeping up on me but I was still in holiday mood. And of course, still full from all the leftovers I had eaten.

I was feeling stuck. I didn’t know what to do with myself. I just kind of laid around in bed staring at things on social media I didn’t even care about. I ended up eating more Thanksgiving leftovers that I wasn’t even craving and sat on the couch to watch Friends.

Not that there is anything wrong with this scene. Honestly, some days it might sound like the ideal situation. And you know I’m all about taking time for yourself to relax.

But I felt terrible. I was antsy and wanting to do more. Plus, I’m sure all the heavy food wasn’t helping. So, after a ridiculous amount of time, I got off the couch and decided to make a change.

That’s when I realized that there are a few things I tend to do when I’m feeling this way. And I thought I’d share them with you!

1. Get Moving

It might sound like the last thing you want to do when feeling this way, but it really helps. It gives you energy and as Elle Woods has taught us, makes us happy! If you know me, you know yoga is my go to, but I also love to go on hikes and get my heart rate up. Find what works for you and gets you excited.

 

2. Go Outside

I think this especially important this time of year. It’s so easy to want to stay inside and be a hermit when it’s all cold outside. I know I’m guilty of this. But just after a little bit of movement, you’ll warm up! And the fresh air and sunshine does wonders. I love walking around my neighborhood or going up to the parkway if I’m up for it! Find something you love.

 

3. Change your Surroundings

This goes beyond just a day when feeling this way. It can help when you have periods of feeling stuck in life. Getting out there and being in a new environment really helps clear the mind and find what’s important. Whether that’s going to a coffee shop for a change of scenery, going to a big city for a weekend, or traveling all the way to another country.

 

4. See People You Love

This one might not work for everyone, or in every situation, but I find that I am immediately cheered up when I’m with friends and family. Something as simple as meeting for coffee or a quick phone call can make all the difference.

 

This past weekend, all I had to do was walk to a local tea shop to read and I felt immediately better. It was a 20 minute walk from my house so I was able to enjoy the sunny, but cool Fall day. It felt so good to be outside and move.

It was crazy how much my mood shifted.

Then once at the tea shop, it was really nice to enjoy a fun beverage while people watching and reading my book. And when it felt right, I paid, and walked back home. I immediately found things to do that made me feel good, instead of just doing something to do it. I felt both relaxed and got things done, but in a much more mindful and positive way.

These little things helped me so much after the busy holiday and I hope they help you too!