Feeling Off: A Checklist for Realigning your Well-Being
In the fast-paced rhythm of our daily lives, it's not uncommon to experience moments when everything seems slightly askew. I have become more aware of when I am just feeling off. I can recognize if I feel anxious, sad, scared, nervous, depressed, etc. but sometimes a feeling just doesn’t fit into a category, sometimes it just feels like I’m out of alignment. If you have ever felt this way, like some thing was just a bit off or you were just not living with your purpose or in the flow give please give this checklist a try and see what could be happening when you’re just feeling off.
1. Physical Well-being:
Are you getting enough quality sleep to care for your body and mind? As we sleep our bodies heal and replenish, if we aren’t getting enough sleep we are at a major deficit.
How is your hydration? We are made up of water and need to drink regularly to keep our bodies performing at their optimized levels. Imagine a plant that you forgot to water, all shriveled and drooped over- this is what our bodies feel like when we don’t drink enough water.
Have you been eating a balanced diet? Eating too many high processed foods can make you feel tired and sluggish. We feel better when we eat foods that are as close to the way that they grow in nature as possible. If you want to feel good, eat foods that are good.
When was the last time you engaged in physical activity, even if just a short walk? Bodies are meant to move. Many people have a sedentary lifestyle so we need to make efforts to get out and move each day.
2. Emotional State:
Acknowledge and explore heightened stress or anxiety, addressing it with self-compassion.
Reconnect with activities and hobbies that bring joy, and express and release unresolved emotions.
3. Social Connections:
Prioritize quality time with friends and family to foster a sense of belonging.
Evaluate your connections; are there relationships that require open communication or reconciliation?
4. Mindfulness and Relaxation:
Cultivate moments of mindfulness or meditation to ground yourself in the present.
Identify stressors and establish healthy coping mechanisms, ensuring moments of relaxation are part of your routine.
5. Life Goals and Purpose:
Reflect on your current activities and their alignment with your long-term goals. Try free writing or journaling with a journal such as the Dream Life Journal.
Assess your sense of purpose, making adjustments to realign with your passions and aspirations.
6. Work-Life Balance:
Strive for equilibrium between work and personal life, emphasizing activities beyond your professional responsibilities.
Evaluate job satisfaction and consider adjustments to enhance your overall well-being, seeking out support with an online coach needed.
7. Creativity and Hobbies:
Engage in activities that stimulate joy and creativity, adding a vibrant dimension to your life.
Reconnect with hobbies or discover new ones that resonate with your interests.
8. Self-Reflection:
Dedicate intentional time for self-reflection, exploring your values and ensuring they guide your decisions.
Embrace change when necessary, understanding that personal growth often involves reevaluation and adjustment.
Remember, the journey to self-discovery and well-being is ongoing. Utilize this checklist not as a one-time fix but as a tool for continuous self-improvement. If the feelings of imbalance persist or become overwhelming, seeking support from a therapist or coach can provide valuable insights and strategies for navigating life's complexities. Prioritize your mental health and well-being – you deserve a balanced life that aligns with your truest self.
-Brittany