I’ve shared a bit in the past, but pregnancy is really tough for me both mentally and physically. I know that sounds obvious and that most women feel the same way, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t find myself in a funk from time to time. This happens even when I’m not pregnant too, of course, but I find myself feeling “meh” way more when I’m pregnant.

I recently was thinking about the things I do to get out of a funk and thought it might be helpful to share on the blog as well. For me, I know right now my moodiness is a result of all the added hormones from pregnancy. However, if you’re feeling down more often than you think you should, consider seeking some professional help.

Alright, here is my list of things I do when I’m feeling in a funk that pretty much instantly help me out in some way. I will usually pick one or two any time I feel like I need a little pick-me-up and I inevitably feel better.

GO FOR A WALK

Any time I find myself in a rut, whether it be a creative funk or just a down feeling in general, moving my body always helps. For me, a 15- or 30-minute walk can make all the difference and clear any mental blocks I might be dealing with. There is also nothing better than the endorphins that exercise gives me after I’m done!

EAT A HEALTHY MEAL

Another way to immediately improve my mood is to have a healthy meal. There’s just something about getting those greens that is like a jolt of feel-good energy. I love grabbing a smoothie at The Juice Bar in Dallas or even just stopping by somewhere that has one of my fav salads.

FOCUS ON GETTING SLEEP

Most days, I can’t just stop what I’m doing and take a nap (although if I can, you bet I will, especially during pregnancy!). But if I’m finding myself having a rough day, I’ll be sure to prioritize sleep that night and go to bed earlier than normal. Even if there is still stuff unfinished on my to-do list, getting good rest is always worth it.

LIMIT MY TIME ON SOCIAL MEDIA

I know everyone feels this way, but in this profession too, there is a lot of negativity on social media. It’s impossible for me to avoid it 100% since it truly is my job, but when I’m in a funk, I do my best to limit my time on social media. Whether that means putting my phone away for a couple of hours or just staying off those apps, I always feel better after a quick little detox.

SPEND TIME WITH FOUR & DUNCAN

No matter what, spending time with my little family is an immediate mood booster for me. Even on the days when I’m feeling exhausted or run-down, these two give me life. If I only have 15 minutes during the day, I’ll pop in and say hi to Four in the other room, or I might text Duncan to see if he wants to grab lunch on the days I’ve got a little more time.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE

This can look different for everyone. I will usually spend a little extra time doing my hair and makeup, go get my nails done, or even hit the gym for 30 minutes. What’s important here is that it’s something you want to do and not just something you need to check off your to-do list for the day.

READ A GOOD BOOK

Y’all know I love to read (see what books I read last month here), and there are few things I enjoy more than getting lost in a good book. Whenever I’m feeling meh, I’ll grab either the book I’m currently reading or go back to an oldie that I really liked and read for 30 minutes. Bonus points if I have a good cup of coffee or hot tea and a cozy blanket!

CALL A FRIEND

I love that God puts people in your life for every situation. I truly feel like whatever is causing my funk, there’s a friend who can help me through that specific situation. For instance, on the days I’m feeling overwhelmed with work and parenting, I’ll call one of my working mamas… then when I feel like I need to just get out of the house and get my mind off of work, I’ll call another friend to grab lunch!

WRITE IN A JOURNAL

Journaling has become such an important part of my everyday routine. I try to make time every morning to journal for at least 15 minutes. But I’ve found that if I’m not in a great creative or mental space, jotting down my thoughts and feelings can be a game-changer.

PRAY & DO QUIET TIME

This is my #1 go-to no matter what when I’m in a funk. I feel better 100% of the time after I pray and/or have some quiet time. My quiet time usually includes reading a devotional or finding a chapter in my Bible to read, but yours can really look any way you want.

If you have any tips for getting out of a funk, I’d love to hear them. Leave a comment and let us know!