Oh, those mental ruts. It’s human nature to have highs and lows, but we all know- it’s bouncing back up after being in a rut… and not living there- forever. It’s doing things on our own to help but also accessing the resource of professional counselors when needed.
While I’ve have my fair share of ruts, these are 5 ways to avoid a mental rut. But yet these ways can also help you climb out of a rut too.
- Talking with (
complaining to) someone who is supportive and positive. Notice the complaining part is not the focus? Ha. While it may be part of the conversation in order to vent and release emotions, thoughts or feelings, engaging in a positive and supportive conversation is much more productive. Most times we don’t feel great after complaining because complaining isn’t typically uplifting and positive (for the talker or the listener), however for a brief time it can feel releasing or unloading, if you will. -
Journaling. Writing down your thoughts is therapeutic. Expressing your feelings through words- whether talking or writing down- both are so, so good. The difference between talking about your thoughts or feelings to someone else is that the conversation can go down different roads or paths (which may be helpful, or not so helpful). While journaling is focused on generating self thought independently. There’s no need to converse with someone and vent or gain clarity. You can gain clarity through your own words by letting your own thoughts be the driver.
-
Breath the fresh air. It’s amazing what fresh air can do for the body, and mainly the soul. It’s therapeutic, it’s living air that fills our lungs and maybe even the breeze gently touches our face. If you are like me and live in the midwest, then getting fresh air in the winters is easier said than done. In that case, I try to change up my scenery- driving somewhere new or changing up your routine when you get out of the house. Switch.it.up.
-
Exercise- even just a little bit each day. If high intensity, loud pounding music doesn’t jolt you out of a rut, try a simple walk, taking the stairs, or even yoga or stretching. Our body reaps so many benefits from exercise and movement that our physical body helps enhance our mental and emotional foundations. The mind/body connection is fierce. Let the endorphins be helpers. If you are lacking in the motivation to exercise or move, just find something to do that requires movement- gardening, lawncare, cleaning around the house (adding some squats & lunges in there), etc.
-
Praying. God knows what you’re going through. We know, and He knows, there are going to be dips and valleys in our life journey. Also engaging in spiritual practices can even be helpful, like listening to worship music and reading. Infuse these on the daily.
-
Meditation. Feeling like you are in a rut typically calls for a “recenteredness,” and even quietness with yourself. Meditation can be independent from your spiritual practices, but the focus is stillness. Being still. There is so much noise and chatter in the world that we need to slow down. Be still, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Just be. In other areas of the world, Monks spend the majority of their time in stillness and meditation. While in our society, stillness is something that would be so beneficial if integrated.
Slow down, just be still.
The fellowship of people who love you, who want the best for you, who care can be really helpful. Shower you with love however that looks. And if nobody comes to mind of someone who cares for you, the most important person does love you- God. He loves you and He knows the darkness. He knows.
Know that professional counselors are still such an essential resource and they should be utilized. I have such a personal and professional respect for counselors that I actually feel like everyone should go talk to a counselor because hey! we all having stuff we are dealing with. I say this half kidding. But really. Gaining clarity from a professional resource when you are in a mental rut, or experiencing a deep sadness of depression, can guide you towards positive steps with a personalized approach.
Thanks for reading. I’m sending a big smile to you as a way to say thank you for reading.