8 Self-Care Tips for When You're Overwhelmed

Anyone feeling a little overwhelmed lately? You're definitely, definitely not alone. While you can't always change the world around you, you can take steps to make self care a priority. Here are eight tricks to try when life becomes just a little too much. 

Create a Routine: Every little bit counts. Sure, doing one thing to make your day better may not feel like a lot, but doing five things every day? That's something. Start small with a morning routine. Wake up, stretch, drink water, open the blinds. Or at night: clear off the counters, set out your clothes, wash your face… little things add up. String them together and you'll go far.

Stretch: When you feel tense emotionally, your body responds. Five minutes of mindful stretching can help you find release. Look on Youtube for routines to follow, or simply move in whatever way feels great.

Drink Water: It's easy to get dehydrated, which can lead to stress-inducing side effects. Drink a big glass of water as soon as you wake up, and keep sipping throughout the day. Keep a water bottle or unbreakable glass near you if you find yourself forgetting.

Make Life A Little Easier: Life is tough enough - why not make things easier on yourself? Order dinner out. Switch to paper plates for a while, or run the dishwasher twice. Use unbreakable glasses. Get rid of clutter you don't need. Let the kids get themselves breakfast. Find small things that you can just let go.

Take a New Route: This is going to sound kooky, but it works! Exercising your brain helps you feel brighter and more present. If you're up for it, try learning a new language or doing a crossword every day. Even something as simple as taking a different route to work can help you feel more awake and refreshed.

Be Healthy… But Do It Your Way: Okay, let's be honest: no one really likes kale. Improving your health and your life is a good thing, but that doesn't mean you have to twist yourself into someone else's definition of healthy living. Eat the veggies, but choose the ones you like. Do the exercise, but do the movement you like best (dance party, anyone?). Forgive yourself for falling out of routines. Allow yourself to find what you love.

Say No: You are more important than your to-do list. If you're finding yourself overwhelmed by everything you "need" to do, it's time to be less needed. Say no to extraneous tasks and obligations. Pare back your calendar. You're important to and needed by the people in your life, but that doesn't mean they can't go on if you take a little time out once in a while. 

Connect With the Moment: You don't have to spend money or tons of time to take care of yourself. Take five minutes to just… be. Turn off the tv, put down the phone, and look out the window. Be alone with your thoughts. Breathe. It doesn't sound like much, but when the world feels overwhelming, you'd be amazed at what a few minutes alone with your thoughts can do.