Feeling Drained

Feeling Drained

Have you ever found yourself completely drained of energy for days on end? This could be physical, emotional, spiritual, or a combination of them. I have found myself that way this week, and I have some tips on how to find your energy and balance again, especially when you’re feeling like you simply can’t give anymore.

Tip #1: Stop and consider what you need. The sheer act of asking yourself: “what do I need right now” is powerful. Maybe it’s more sleep, maybe it’s time alone, maybe it’s a break from social media. So many of us feel drained but never honor what we actually know we need. Don’t feel guilty about what you need, and don’t waste time in taking it.

Tip #2: Wake up and spend 20-30 minutes writing in your journal. No need for any prompts or organizations. In fact, a stream of consciousness is best. It will give you insight into where your subconscious brain is spending its time and may help you identify what is draining your energy. Don’t judge what you are writing. Just set a timer, and write whatever comes to your brain. It is both cathartic and leading, and perhaps may even steer you in the right direction to knowing a solution.

Tip #3: Cancel all your plans and go to sleep. Whether your stress is emotional or physical, getting extra sleep can give everything more time to reset and catch up. Our bodies heal and repair when we are asleep, and it helps on an emotional level to allow your body the extra rest. If we are feeling drained, it’s oftentimes a sign that our body needs to slow down. Don’t hesitate to heed the advice. 

Tip #4: Focus on eating foods high in B-vitamins. B-vitamins are a class of 8 water-soluble, feel-good vitamins that not only help to convert our food into usable energy, but they also play a role in producing certain brain chemicals needed for the production of other feel-good hormones like serotonin. If you find yourself craving meat when you are feeling drained, it’s because animal proteins like beef, chicken, turkey, and eggs are especially high in B-vitamins. If you are plant-based, though, grab some legumes, avocados, sunflower seeds, and leafy greens like spinach and romaine lettuce. 

Tip #5:  Get outside into nature and move your body. Exercise and movement can help ease emotional and physical stress and help to ground you back into your body and spirit. Even better, take your shoes off and feel the earth underneath your feet. We have many sensors in our hands and feet that can help release hormones to relax us. Not to mention, the sun has powerful energy, and getting fresh air is always a good idea.

We all do our best to prevent moments of complete overwhelm or energy depletion. But sometimes it just simply takes over. You are not weak or silly if you find yourself in this position. It happens. But when it does, treat yourself with kid gloves and compassion. The last thing you need is for additional self-judgment or criticism amidst the chaos. Slow yourself down, take what you need for as long as you need, and know that you will make it out on the other side.