How to stop feeling tired and fed up

This month, I’ve been particularly aware of how tired I’m feeling and how others have been sharing they’ve been feeling the same. It’s not just the zoom fatigue that was discussed in the media a few months back, although that is of course still one aspect. It’s the fatigue of being in the same routine, the lack of variety and the constant sitting in front of the laptop or PC for work, without the impromptu social interactions with work colleagues that take you away from the screen. Then heading into weekends which are all the same too!

Changes to feelings

So how can we make some small changes that could support us all? That is where this month’s theme could help, ‘Being Present’. In our daily routines, we could all take some time to approach something differently – using our senses, which Corrinne referred to in her recent article. That could be taking a moment to slow down and really notice the different fabrics on your skin as you get dressed or while sitting at your laptop. Or taking in the different smells as you make your evening meal and then making time to fully taste each mouthful when you eat. Perhaps having a moment to really see something, maybe so you can share a compliment with a colleague by noticing the outfit they are wearing on a video call, or asking them about the picture on their wall. I am sure you can think of other things too.

Take time to feel present

It is also about taking a moment to be really present to how you are and what you need right now. We set up Breathing Spaces in lockdown 2020 to give time and space for people to step out, connect and really focus on themselves – being present to their needs and to replenish and rejuvenate. Perhaps you would benefit from joining us for half an hour weekly to do just that, it’s totally free – days and times are here.  

I’ve been reading the book ‘The Body Keeps The Score’ by Bessel Van Der Kolk recently and a piece struck me about what happens when we become fatigued or lost to things and aren’t present – we become desensitised. 

“Desensitisation may make you less reactive, but if you cannot feel satisfaction in ordinary everyday things like taking a walk, cooking a meal, or playing with your kids, life will pass you by.”

Everyday ordinary

At the moment we are surrounded mostly by ordinary, everyday things and so ‘being really present’ to them can support us to feel the joy and wonder in them. Even if they are ordinary and every day, they are our lives at the moment and can offer us pleasure.

The charity Mind recently shared some thoughts on burnout whilst working from home in Covid that you might also find useful. Taking care of yourself not only helps you, it gives you the capacity to notice when others are struggling and support them – a little kindness can go a long way.