How to Get Out of a Funk
It feels like being in a funk occasionally is a necessary part of being human. We are experiencing uncertainty, bewilderment, overwhelm, and apathy right now. Whatever form your funk takes, it isn't enjoyable.
These intervals may endure for a few hours, days, weeks, months, or even years. Unannounced, they show up. Sometimes we can explain how our mood isn't in sync with what's going on outside of us, but other times we can't. It is what it is.
While there is no quick fix for a situation like this, this article does promise some good news: some tools and tactics you can start using right away that can assist you and ultimately help you come out of a funk and regain control of your life.
Let’s take a look at effective ways to get out of a funk, shall we?
1. Imagine your ideal environment
Although it sounds cliché, the old saying to "envision your happy spot" might be very beneficial. Is there a place that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside? Perhaps it's the recurring beach trip to the same island or reading novels on your mother's screened-in porch. Closing your eyes and imagining yourself in this joyful place may be helpful, but you can also make your home as close to this "place" as you can. You might take a brief break outside to read a book or listen to a playlist that makes you nostalgic for your tropical vacation. A happy memory that you can picture in your mind's eye will help you feel better right now.
2. Take up yoga or breath control
Feeling out of control can be alleviated by anything that brings you back into your body and out of your thoughts. Exercise is such a great mood booster! Moving your body can assist in general, but the activity that centres on breathing can help you feel more grounded. When you're feeling anxious, try practising yoga and concentrate on taking deep breaths with each exercise (remember to think "inhale" and "exhale" to stay focused). Another effective method of reducing stress that you can do at any moment is breathwork.
3. Use online resources
Many renowned meditation teachers, psychologists, and wellness specialists offer online services (many for free or affordable). Consider looking up experts who can make you feel your best, as well as the web tools they provide. Our very own Qurious expert, The Confidence & Assertiveness Specialist™, Talia Bombola hosts 3 incredible therapist-supported podcasts that you can tune into when in need of some clarity: Heal Through Humor, The Couples Guide Podcast, and Between Two Clinicians. Additionally, her dating + relationship advice column, “Weekly Wisdom”, includes self-worth and relationship tips that can uplift you from the worst of days.
4. Embrace (some) distractions
It's crucial to be aware of these negative feelings and determine the "why" behind them if you're feeling down, stressed, anxious, or just plain bored. Distractions can, however, be advantageous because they prevent you from dwelling on unpleasant emotions and instead encourage you to feel more favourably about the circumstance you're in.
5. Make a personal "de-funk" playlist
A funky (the good type) playlist can occasionally be all that's needed to lift a bad mood. It's my "Caffeine" playlist for me, Social Media Editor Abigail's "Anti-Anxiety League" playlist for her, and one killer playlist we all adore, "The Everygirl Listens: Dance Party!" totally slaps (I hear that's a phrase the hip kids are saying). Combining all of the songs that bring back pleasant memories and make you want to dance is the aim of a de-funking playlist. When a funk (the good or bad sort) starts to set in, turn on the playlist and dance around the living room, remembering that life isn't intended to be taken too seriously.
6. Pamper Yourself
Everyone talks about self-care, but rarely actually practises it for themselves. Disconnect from the bigger picture of things or the tedious little things and just be. Enjoy a nice, hot soak in a bubble bath with muscle-relaxing Sens CBD Bath Bombs, do a face mask, schedule that long-forgotten haircut or get a massage. These moments don’t have to be reserved for “special occasions” only, life is too short to wait for when you get to just be.
Final Reflections
Sometimes it seems as though you are having a bad day or that time is passing quickly, leaving you behind. You can, however, pull yourself out of a rut! You may improve your mental health and regain control of your life by identifying your troubles and negative moods and actively changing your thoughts. Remember most funks are short-lived. A couple of bad days here and there is really nothing to be too concerned about. It’s when the bad days or negative feelings seem to be lasting longer and longer. If you’re not experiencing any little joys or breakthrough moments of happiness, it might be time to reach out for support. A mental health expert can help you work through and manage your feelings.