Self-Care for the Overwhelmed: 5 Simple Steps to Reset

Hey girlfriend! Life can get stressful at times. Balancing personal relationships, work, and everything in between can take an overwhelming toll on our mental health. And that’s okay—there’s no shame in admitting it. We’re all human, and humans are basically like batteries with legs. We need to recharge now and then. In fact, taking the time to reset and refocus can be incredibly beneficial. Below are some activities that can help you do just that.

Exercise

Energy can’t be created or destroyed—only transferred. When you exercise, you’re channeling that energy into something positive. Instead of using it to escalate conflict or cause harm, you’re using it to strengthen both your mind and body. Exercise forces you to be present in the moment, grounding you and helping you process emotions. When the workout is done, so is the stress. Stepping out of the gym with a clear mind and a renewed perspective, you’ll be ready to take on whatever comes next with stamina and discipline.

Yoga

Like exercise, yoga helps you reconnect with your body. Deep breathing and stretching relax your muscles and release the tension you’ve been holding onto. The different poses encourage you to move through emotions and embrace the natural flow of life. As your heart rate and thoughts slow down, you’ll begin to see things with more clarity. After a session, leave everything that weighs you down on the mat and carry only peace with you.

Journal

Picking up a pen is like giving yourself permission to release your feelings without burdening anyone else. You can be as transparent as you need to be, free from judgment. Writing helps you step back from your emotions, providing an objective perspective on your situation. It’s a cleanse that helps you process, understand, and let go. As you journal, remember to affirm yourself with uplifting words and remind yourself that thoughts—like clouds—come and go.

Read

Reading is an escape to another world. When you immerse yourself in a book, time seems to slow down. You experience new perspectives, reflect on your own life, and gain valuable insights along the way. It’s a beautiful way to distract your mind from ruminating thoughts. By walking in the shoes of different characters, you’ll see the world through fresh eyes and return to your own reality feeling inspired.

Nature Walk

Sometimes, the simplest thing can help us reset: stepping outside for fresh air. Take a moment to stop and smell the roses. Walking in nature reminds us of the imperfect beauty of life and helps us find gratitude. Nature’s simplicity shows us that everything in life is temporary, including the difficult emotions or situations we might be facing. It helps us remember the bigger picture: Life is beautiful, and the world has so much to offer.

When life feels overwhelming, take a moment to step back and focus on yourself. Prioritize your mental health because there is no reward greater than peace of mind, and no relationship more important than the one you have with yourself.