I had a very disrupted night last night and all I wanted to do this morning was curl up inside a warm cinnamon roll and eat my way out. Fortunately, I didn’t have any pastries within reach. Instead I hugged my cup of coffee and let the music on the radio get my head in a better place.
On days like this I try to think about making my future self proud. I know that the tough days are the ones that count the most in the long run. It is important to acknowledge when you feel bad. I have found it extremely helpful to verbalize my frustration — often standing in front of an open snack cabinet.
Saying the words, “I’m not hungry, I’m tired and frustrated,” can be enough to draw me out of my head and help me walk out of the kitchen.
This time of year can be especially difficult. The dreary weather sucks me into feelings of lethargy and I frequently get the blues. Knowing these feelings are coming helps. I can strategize ways to deal with the sluggish days.
On days when even the simplest tasks take all your energy, do your best to bear in mind, these feelings are temporary — “this too shall pass.”
To get yourself out of a funky head space, go outside and walk around the block, listen to some uplifting music, and have a chat with a friend. You may not snap right back to normal but a little distraction from your yucky day will help it pass with a bit more ease.
As for comfort eating, my suggestion is a big bowl of apple wedges, sprinkled with cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Pair your snack with a cup of strong spicy tea, and, if the need to nibble keeps nagging, make yourself a big bowl of air popped popcorn. Eating when you feel down is not bad unless you use it as an excuse to make poor choices.
Do you get more cravings when you are tired? How do you help yourself make choices you will be proud of when you are feeling better?
P.S. If you Google “cinnamon roll bed,” there are no pictures of a cinnamon roll made into a bed or a person sleeping in a cinnamon roll. I was super disappointed. There is a need to be filled here, if you are so inclined.
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