5 things to do when you’re exhausted and depleted

I’ve talked to many women this week who are having that “OMG it’s the fall and I’m going crazy” experience!

There’s so much to do, and to figure out. Back to work, school, carpools, demands from every direction.

I really get it. I’m right there with you! 

And this weekend it really came to a head when I left town for  a memorial that left my heart in the depths of loss, came back after 36 hours for a b’nei mitzvah (the Jewish right of passage for 13 year olds) that had my heart soaring and my feet dancing – and then to top it off, it’s Rosh Hashanah – the Jewish New Year…and my mind and soul are starting to shift inwards, to step into the rituals and intentions for the new year.

By the time I drove back from the memorial service on Saturday morning, I was exhausted. By the time the bnei mitzvah ceremony on Saturday was over, I was feeling depleted.
But I didn’t want to head off to the evening celebration without an infusion of energy for dancing – and I certainly didn’t want to start the New Year feeling depleted, exhausted and blah – so I went into deep nourish and replenish mode.

When I see myself in this kind of state, it’s time to pull out my deep replenishment tools.

 

Probiotics: 

I’m a big proponent of keeping your gut healthy because it supports all other aspects of your body. It keeps your immune system strong, your brain healthy, and so much more. When I’m stressed and exhausted, I know my immune system is taking a hit, so I reach for additional probiotics in the form of supplements, naturally fermented sauerkrauts, and this weekend – I added probiotics in the form of a probiotic drink I love called Kevita! It’s kind of like Kombucha – but using a different kind of good bacteria. It’s a lovely, slightly fizzy drink, that feels deeply nourishing. I also love to add in some elderberry syrup, for an added immune boost.

Elderberry:

Elderberry syrup is always in my cold and flu fighting arsenal. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike – and it’s safe to add in on a daily basis when you know you’re stretching your system a bit too much – and may be more prone to illness. Elderberries are known for boosting the immune system. They can be used to both prevent and treat colds. I love adding it into any drink, because it has a lovely sweet and tangy flavor.

Epsom Salts Bath:

Ahhh, a relaxing bath is so healing and soothing!

Then add in…

• 2 cups of Epsom Salts which helps relax your muscles (because of the magnesium)
• 3 drops of lavender essential oil to help relax your nervous system
• 1 heaping tablespoon of coconut oil to soften your skin

And you’ve got yourself your own mini spa!

I also sipped a cup of Tulsi Tea (perfect for relaxing the nervous system) while I was in the bath!

Face Scrub:

When I’m depleted, my skin shows it. My face doesn’t have it’s shiny glow…I breakout, and get kind of dull looking. That’s when I whip up a quick face scrub.

In the blender, I coarsely grind:

• 1 heaping tablespoon of oatmeal
• 6 almonds

Then I add that to:

• 2 tablespoons of raw honey
• 1 tablespoon of water

This makes a lovely healing scrub that disinfects and nourishes the skin. Scrub the mix all over your face gently. If you have have time let it set on your face for 10 minutes and then rinse it off with water. You’ll get your glow back.

Sleep:

It kind of goes without saying that when you’re depleted and exhausted you need more sleep.

• Naps
• Going to bed earlier
• Sleeping later

Really, any approach will work, but get more rest!

My plea to you is to listen to your body when it says “I’m depleted” and respond with deep self-care! The answer to exhaustion isn’t another cup of coffee or chocolate, it’s deep nourishment! I hope you’ll choose any or all of the above strategies, and put them into action! Let me know how it goes!

 

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