Why You're So Tired
Ya’ll are TIRED.
Seriously, when I ask people how they’re feeling, “tired” is the most common answer. And I GET it, I feel like despite all my own best efforts I still struggle to ever feel truly rested. (I’m sure my tendency to do some late night social media scrolling has nothing to do with it, right?)
There are a ton of reasons you might be feeling tired. Work demands, home demands, hormones, environmental toxins, poor sleep, and nutrition all play a role. However, one of the primary contributors to our collective fatigue isn’t totally your fault. We as a society are terrible at resting.
You Don’t Know How to Rest
Resting isn’t just about sleeping; it’s about letting your mind and body recharge. Yet, in our fast-paced society, rest often feels like a luxury rather than a necessity. We push ourselves to keep going, ignoring the signals our bodies send us to slow down.
Think about it: when was the last time you truly took a break without feeling guilty? Exactly. It’s time to start scheduling regular breaks throughout your day. Take a five-minute pause to breathe deeply, stretch, or walk around. You wouldn't let your phone battery run down to zero, would you? So why do that to yourself? Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea. Make it a priority to unwind without distractions, allowing your mind to reset.You Focus on Productivity Over Fulfilment
We love to celebrate productivity. There’s extreme pressure to fill every second of the day, rather than organizing a day centered on how fulfilled or purposeful we feel. This can leave us feeling empty and exhausted, as we chase after an endless to-do list without considering what truly matters to us.
Instead, reflect on what brings you joy and fulfillment. Are there tasks that align with your passions and values? Prioritize these activities and let go of the need to constantly be doing something. Remember, it’s okay to take time for yourself and engage in activities that make you happy and fulfilled.
You Don’t Get Enough Movement
Many of us spend our days sitting at desks, staring at screens. Lack of physical activity can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness. Exercise is not just good for your body; it also boosts your mental well-being by releasing endorphins and reducing stress.
This doesn’t mean you have to hit the gym every day. Find activities you enjoy, whether it’s walking, dancing, yoga, or playing a sport. Even short bursts of activity can significantly improve your energy levels.
You Don’t Get Enough Nature
Being cooped up indoors all day can drain your energy. Nature has a remarkable ability to refresh and rejuvenate us. Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall well-being.
Make it a habit to spend time outdoors each day, even if it’s just 5 minutes. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike, or simply sitting in your backyard, immerse yourself in nature.
You Glorify Being Tired as a Badge of Honor
In our society, being busy and tired is often seen as a sign of success and worthiness. We wear our exhaustion like a badge of honor, equating it with productivity and value. This mindset can prevent us from recognizing when we need to slow down and take care of ourselves.
Remind yourself that rest is essential for your well-being and productivity. Celebrate moments of relaxation and self-care. Surround yourself with people who value balance and encourage you to take care of yourself. Remember, you need to put on your own oxygen mask first before helping others.
You’re not listening to your body.
Your body’s physical needs play a crucial role in how energetic you feel. Dehydration, poor diet, lack of quality sleep, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to chronic fatigue. Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration, which often manifests as fatigue. Consuming a diet high in processed foods and sugar can cause spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels, leading to tiredness. Certain medical conditions, such as anemia, thyroid disorders, and sleep apnea, can cause chronic fatigue. It's not just about the quantity of sleep but also the quality. Poor sleep habits, such as inconsistent sleep schedules (or, um, too much late night scrolling) can lead to non-restorative sleep.
Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8 glasses, but adjust based on your activity level and climate. Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Try to avoid excessive sugar and processed foods. Create a bedtime routine that promotes good sleep hygiene. This might include keeping a consistent sleep schedule, making your bedroom dark and cool, and avoiding screens before bed. Regular check-ups and blood tests can help identify if there’s a medical reason behind your fatigue. Treating the root cause can significantly improve your energy levels.
Your nervous system and/or mental health are in need of TLC.
Conditions like depression and anxiety can drain your energy and make you feel perpetually tired. Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your nervous system, leading to feelings of constant fatigue. When your body is in a state of stress, it produces hormones like cortisol that can disrupt sleep and deplete your energy levels.
Seek professional help if you suspect that mental health issues are contributing to your fatigue. Practice stress management like mindfulness meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, or hobbies that you find relaxing. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep by creating a bedtime routine that promotes relaxation, such as turning off screens an hour before bed and practicing calming activities like reading or gentle stretching.
Being tired all the time is a common issue, but it’s figure-outable.
By understanding the underlying causes of your fatigue and implementing these solutions, you can regain your energy and improve your overall well-being. Remember, it’s not just about managing your time but also about managing your energy and prioritizing rest and fulfillment. Take small, intentional steps towards a more balanced and energized life.
You’ve got this!
A little self-care can go a long way, and before you know it, you’ll be feeling more energized and ready to take on the world. Keep moving forward, and don't forget to rest along the way.
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