67: Feeling Cooped Up? Try this now (Copy)
In this episode, Barbara shares three actionable steps for mothers feeling cooped up and isolated. She emphasizes the importance of getting outside, connecting with friends, and dressing up to improve mood and well-being. Each step is designed to be accessible and adaptable to individual circumstances, encouraging listeners to take immediate action to enhance their mental health and break free from feelings of stagnation.
Quick Takeaways:
Get outside to benefit from morning light and fresh air.
Perfectionism can hinder simple actions.
Voice your needs to overcome barriers.
Connecting with friends combats isolation.
Dressing up can elevate your mood.
Small actions can lead to significant changes.
Don't wait to take action; just do it.
Counseling is a valuable resource for support.
Prioritize self-care amidst parenting duties.
Embrace the outdoors for mental clarity.
It goes without saying that if you are feeling more than cooped up or just can’t get out of a rut, then a counselor might be the way to go. My tips are great, but I’m no counselor and don’t pretend to be one so please keep that in mind while dealing with deeper issues or more than a couple of “off” days.
Now that the disclaimer is out of the way let’s jump in. Step one is to get outside. Preferably in the morning but whenever you can is great! We’ve all heard about the benefits of being in the early morning light on our circadian rhythm but being outdoors has so many benefits so don’t let this one pass you by even if your morning routine doesn’t have room for that early morning outdoor perk. Maybe for you, it’s standing in fresh air for 5 minutes. Maybe you take your baby in a carrier or your toddler in a stroller. What has blocked me in the past, was my lack of simply voicing the words, “Hey Babe, I’d like to go for a walk solo this morning.” That was getting in my way. I recognize that everyone has their own individual barriers, but do not be your own barrier, be not stating your needs. So with or without your baby, or babies, get outside. To stand, walk, run, yodel into the forest, whatever it is but do it immediately and especially if you feel you’ve been stuck at the house or at work too much lately.
Step two, text or call a friend and if at all possible find a time to see them. Perhaps they can come to you if you are feeling less mobile or don’t have easy transportation. You could meet them out with or without your baby but get something on the calendar. Feeling isolated and disconnected starts from the natural instinct to highly prioritize your baby, but can easily slip into a routine of not reaching out and feeling alone. There are times when I get a call from a family member or friend and I end up chatting so much I don’t think they get a word in edgewise- this is usually a sign that I really need to talk to friends more often.
Step three, get dressed. Real pants (or a dress if pants are still the devil), shoes, brush your hair... you get the idea. You may be like me when you sometimes ask, “what's the point” but when you get yourself ready and level up even if it’s still casual, you can really uplevel your mood too. If you find yourself needing somewhere to go, you can take yourself to the grocery store, another errand, or to get a coffee or tea somewhere. Anywhere, just remind yourself of the feeling of putting yourself together and being around people.
So that’s it. Short and effective. Get outside, make contact with a friend, and put yourself somewhat together in a way that has you standing a bit taller. Don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Just step into action and get unstuck.