16 Self Care Tips for Brokenness

Brokenness- Quora defines it as “a response to being hurt so badly that the only way to protect yourself from more pain is to emotionally detach from everyone and everything.”  Life sometimes is HARD and our emotions are Real.  No one is immune from experiencing disappointment, sadness, anger, fear, and brokenness.  There are a few things you can do when you are “feeling broken.”   

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Here are a few self-care tips to help you be in control of your emotions instead of your emotions being in control.

1. Go for a walk.

Most people know that going for a short daily walk is one of the best forms of exercise. When you are feeling down it is even more beneficial. If you can, go into a natural environment with plants and birds. Can you think of such a setting not? What do you notice first? The different shades of greenery, the fresh smell of country air, the sounds of birds, or the sunlight shining through the trees? Make it real by taking a short stroll.

2. Listen to positive upbeat music.

Music can shift a listener’s state within moments. Its effect can be nearly magical.  Listen to music you haven’t heard in ages or tune into positive dancing music something that uplifts your mood.

3. Open yourself to discovering something new.

Read something (printed, not online) different than what you would normally read. There are a ton of different types of magazines can you get these days. Visit your local library or browse through a magazine rack.  Pick up or buy a magazine you wouldn’t normally buy. You may discover something wonderful.

4. Find something to laugh at.

Laughter is one of the best ways to lift your spirits. Find a humorous book, or watch a comedy. Even better, try to learn a few new jokes and tell them to others. 

5. Simple breathing meditation.

Breathing meditation is a great exercise that you can do anywhere.  Simply allow yourself to sit comfortably with your back straight. Now close your eyes and become aware of the flow of air into and out of your nostrils. That’s all there is to it. Do this for 10-15 minutes. Notice how pleasantly surprised you can be at how you feel afterward.

6. Doodling for the fun of it.

Most people can remember when they were young and used to doodle for hours. Kids love drawing silly little pictures. Drawing is not just for kids or artists.  Get some pens, pencils, crayons or whatever you have and just draw for the fun of it. Notice how your state of mind shifts.

7. Talk with someone who cares. 

You are not alone.  Everyone has felt broken and talking with someone who cares about you can be the support you need during this time. 

8.   Think of others less fortunate.

The fact that you are reading this article suggests that you are probably much better off than most people on this planet. At times this may be hard to believe, but if you can read and have access to the internet, just those two things alone mean you are better off than most people in the world.  There are many human beings that barely have access to the basics of survival. There are people in lots of pain. Allow your compassion for them to grow.

9.   Do something nice for someone else.

And it doesn’t cost a thing and it uplifts you.  Just a friendly greeting or compliment to the cashier who is checking you out at the grocery store or the server at the restaurant.  Sometimes just saying hello first.

10.  Declutter and organize your space.

When you are depressed and broken sometimes you don’t feel like getting out of the bed much less making it.  But if you can declutter or organize something small like your closet, your desk or room, it gives you a sense of accomplishment.

11.  Watch what you eat.

Caffeine, sugar, process foods can affect our emotions, sleep, and mood. Try to limit your intake.  Foods that help boost your mood are proteins like, eggs, poultry, seafood, tofu, and low-fat Greek yogurt. Vitamins D3, B-12, and fiber.  According to Healthline.com “there’s a clear relationship between food and your state of mind.”

12.  Try to get sleep.

Sleep is a major factor when it comes to how it affects your emotions and not getting enough sleep can cause health issues.  Most adults need 7 to 9 hours per night and that varies from person to person.  If you’re not getting enough sleep try to squeeze in a nap.

13.  Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Not drinking enough water causes dehydration which leads to a lack of energy, confusion, and irritability.  Health authorities commonly recommend eight 8-ounce glasses, which equals about 2 liters, or half a gallon. This is called the 8×8 rule and is very easy to remember. 

14.  Take 60 seconds and think about what you’re grateful for.

Instead of thinking about the bad in your life, take 60 seconds and think about all the things you are grateful for.  Write down the things you are grateful for and take several 60 seconds breaks throughout the day.  

15.  Make your Instagram account a happy place.

When you are feeling blue, go to your Instagram account and view your “saved” photos of puppies, kittens, or any photos that take you to your happy place.

16.  Write down the good you have done.

Write down the challenges you have overcomeand things from your past that you are proud of. 

These are all pretty simple. There’s nothing profound or life-changing, but when you need to be in control of your emotions these may be just the thing you need. Putting simple ideas, methods, tools, and techniques into action will help you achieve change quickly and easily faster than you imagine.