When You're in a Funk, Remember Ebb and Flow

Remembering the concept of Ebb and Flow can help get you through life's challenges.

Do you ever go through a period when you are in a funk? Just can’t get moving? Feel like a lump? Have the best of intentions but totally fall flat?

Or is it just me?

One of the best pieces of advice I have ever received is to remember that there is an ebb and flow to the energy of life, and we are no exception.

Let’s consider the seasons. Though spring is knocking at the door in Northern Minnesota, it will be several weeks before it’s springing in full force. Trees, shrubs, flowers and yes, even weeds will put forth a tremendous amount of energy toward growth. This energy is required to create leaves, flowers and seeds that help build more energy to ensure long-term survival and continuation of the plant species.

But what happens after about 3-4 months (in Northern Minnesota, anyway!)? Growth slows down. Grasses dry up. The forest is painted in glorious shades of red, yellow and rust before leaves start drifting lazily to the ground. Until finally, with the onset of winter, everything stops and settles into a deep slumber.

Of course there are many other examples of the ebb and flow of energy in the world around us. Sunrise, sunset. The glorious singing and activity of birds attracting their mates falls silent as they shift focus toward incubating and raising their young. And - my favorite - the rise and fall of the ocean’s tides.

My point is, when you find yourself feeling a little funky, take some time to reflect. What’s been happening in your life lately? Perhaps you’ve been under a lot of pressure at work, or maybe you have recently moved or started a new job. Or maybe things have been tough on the home front. And let’s not forget the pandemic that has brought a lot of fear, grief and division these past few years.

When you take time to reflect and realize that yes, you have been working very hard or have been through quite a bit lately, perhaps you can also come to the realization that you can be a bit kinder and gentler on yourself. That funky, lumpy feeling just might be your body saying “Hey you - it’s time to take a bit of a break and go easy on yourself. But don’t worry - you take care of me - I’ll take care of you. We’ll be back on track in no time flat!”

Friends, when you find yourself in a funk after a good solid flow, maybe it’s time to do a bit of ebbing - and have it be ok. Take care of yourself and I promise you - the flow will come back.

Have you been in a funk and are ready to get back in the flow? Contact Sarah VanderMeiden today for your free consultation!