Here’s Why You Feel Mentally and Spiritually Sluggish (and How to Overcome It)
Many of us feel mentally sluggish and emotionally drained, often without realizing why. One significant culprit is the type of content we consume daily—social media, music, and movies. Our habits, especially in the mornings, can set the tone for our entire day. The good news is that with some intentional changes, you can regain your mental and spiritual energy.
The Impact of Morning Habits
For many, the day starts with grabbing a phone and scrolling through social media. This automatic habit exposes us to unpredictable content before we’ve even gotten out of bed. I’ve experienced this firsthand. One morning, I opened X (formerly Twitter) and was immediately confronted with graphic images from an ongoing conflict. My mood plummeted before I’d even left the bed.
Starting the day this way often leads to a cascade of negative effects. Pair that with music that lacks positivity, mindless scrolling throughout the day, and unsettling movies at night, and it’s no wonder you feel mentally and spiritually sluggish. The key is to recognize these patterns and make intentional adjustments.
How to Set a Positive Tone for the Day
Instead of reaching for your phone first thing in the morning, take small but intentional actions:
Make Your Bed: This simple act creates a sense of accomplishment.
Hydrate: Drinking water jumpstarts your body and mind.
Plan Your Day: Write down or review your priorities to set a clear direction.
Once you’ve established a positive momentum, build on it with healthy habits like exercising, showering, and enjoying a nourishing breakfast. These actions will shape your mindset and help you approach the day with clarity and energy.
Mindful Media Consumption
As spiritual and emotional beings, the content we consume has a profound impact on us, even subconsciously. Here’s how to approach media with intention:
Social Media: Avoid doom scrolling, especially in the mornings. If you’re a content creator, focus on creating rather than passively consuming.
Music: Music influences your mood and energy, so choose your playlist carefully. While aggressive beats might motivate you at the gym, balance them with uplifting or calming tunes during the rest of the day.
Movies: Be mindful of your mental state before pressing play. If a film starts to affect you negatively, don’t hesitate to turn it off. Protecting your mental and spiritual space is more important than finishing a movie.
Protect Your Energy
The drag on your mental and spiritual well-being doesn’t come only from media; it can also stem from the people around you. Evaluate your relationships and environments. Surround yourself with individuals and situations that uplift and inspire you.
Remember, you are in control. You can remove anything from your life that detracts from your peace of mind. By staying aware and making intentional choices, you can cultivate a state of mental and spiritual balance.
Final Thoughts: Take Charge of Your Mental Space
Overcoming mental and spiritual sluggishness isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Start small by identifying habits that drain you and replacing them with uplifting practices. If you stumble, don’t beat yourself up. Simply refocus and continue moving forward.
Your mental and spiritual health is worth the effort. Take control of your day, protect your energy, and create a life that feels fulfilling and aligned with your best self.
