An introvert is someone who has a rich inner world, imaginative, and spends a lot of time in deep thought. Introverts prefer solitude or small intimate settings with a couple of friends, over large gatherings. For an introvert, it is a necessity to spend time “recharging” because social interactions can be profoundly draining. You can learn more about the personality types here. In this post, I will focus specifically on introversion.
Growing up, I did not understand why I always felt so drained after socializing and needed to be in complete solitude for days at a time afterwards. There were countless times when I was out with friends and family and suddenly felt the urge to go home, or randomly lost the energy to engage in conversation. I did not understand why I felt overwhelmed in crowded places, yet thrived in small intimate settings.
I had a strong dislike for “small talk” and always wanted to know how people were truly feeling. I noticed that after spending time alone, I would reemerge into the world feeling refreshed and ready to socialize again. Unfortunately at the time, I did not have the knowledge to make the connection, so I felt like there was something wrong with me.
When I first learned about introversion, my eyes felt like they were being opened for the first time. I started understanding myself on a deeper level and began embracing my introverted nature. I felt the most comfort and reassurance when I realized that I was not alone, and that there were millions of people around the world who could relate to my experiences. Instead of fighting who I was, I began to embrace the fact that I require alone time. It helps me to check in with myself and allows me to give the best of myself to the people I care about. When I don’t spend time alone recharging, I can tell because I feel VERY irritable lol.
Below I share 12 ways to recharge when you are socially drained or overstimulated.
1. It's okay to say no
If you are a recovering people pleaser (Like myself) it may be challenging for you to say “no” to those you care about because you don’t want to disappoint them. But it’s okay to turn down invites if you’ve truly been feeling overstimulated and drained from constant interactions. You are not a bad person for choosing to prioritize yourself. Even if it’s only for a moment. Try to listen to your body because it usually always tell you what it needs. Note: If you absolutely MUST attend the invite, it’s okay to leave early.
2. Get some fresh air
There are very few things in life that I enjoy more than being in nature. I began to understand the profound effects of being outdoors when I use to work in an office building and had to spend hours sitting at my desk. I discovered that going outside for a few minutes throughout the day to get some fresh air was enough to give me a boost in energy and clarity. Now, when I am feeling overstimulated, I make it a point to spend time outside. I put my phone aside so that I can truly be in tune with my surroundings. I encourage you to spend more time outside, even if it’s only for a few minutes a day.
3. Unplug from social media
After spending hours socializing or being “on” all day, I like to put my phone on do not disturb so that I only receive emergency notifications. I log out of all social media apps to help me unplug even more. I have noticed that when I am already feeling drained, being on social media causes me to feel even more overstimulated. Can you relate? On most social media platforms, we are constantly reading, watching, engaging, scrolling, and taking in A LOT of information. Spending a few hours away from the business of the internet may be exactly what you need to reconnect with yourself and feel more grounded.
4. Drink tea
Drinking a warm cup of tea after a long stressful day works wonders when it comes to unwinding. One of my favorites is Chamomile tea. (My favorite brand can be purchased here). Chamomile is known to help relax, soothe, and calm feelings of anxiousness. Of course, you do not have to drink this specific tea. You can try any tea of your choosing, but I recommend something without caffeine (especially if you will be going to bed soon). There is just something very comforting about sipping some warm tea. It makes me feel like everything will be okay somehow lol.
5. Take a nap
Sometimes sleep is exactly what you need to hit the reset button on everything. A 15-30 minute Power Nap may help you feel calmer and more refreshed. While taking a nap won’t solve all of your problems, it can help to temporarily put your mind at ease.
6. Bubble bath
If you can, take a bubble bath! lol I never use to do this, but it has become one of my favorite ways to decompress. If you don’t have bath tub, a warm/hot shower can be just as effective. For some reason, being in water is extremely grounding. Imagine that you are washing away the business of the day.
7. Be unproductive
This may probably feel strange and uncomfortable at first because we are taught to always “be productive.” Honestly, this was, and sometimes still is a challenge for me. If I am not actively doing something to better my life, it feels like I am falling behind. But I am learning that it is necessary to have balance. Spending a day or a couple of hours doing NOTHING may be exactly what you need to recharge. Try to ignore any guilty thoughts or feelings that may arise. Remind yourself that you aren’t doing anything wrong by allowing yourself to be still.
8. Write your thoughts
Journaling or writing down your thoughts about the day can be such a helpful way to unwind. It does not have to be anything structured or formal. You don’t even have to write complete sentences. Just write whatever comes to your mind so that you can express yourself. Re-reading what you wrote may also help you process what you are feeling.
9. Do something solo
When I am overstimulated or socially tapped out, I like to go to places alone. This can look like sitting at your favorite restaurant and eating your favorite meal. Going to the movies, going to the gym, or taking a walk. Always make sure that you are paying attention to your surroundings if you are out alone.
10. Spa day
Spend the day pampering yourself. Do your nails, and toes. Wash and deep condition your hair. Do a face mask, and exfoliate. Light some candles and take a relaxing bath or shower. These are only suggestions to help give you some ideas. But spending the day taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to recharge.
11. Organize something
I am not sure about the science behind this, but cleaning or organizing something always lifts my mood! I have learned that cluttered spaces can contribute to feelings of overwhelm and overstimulation. It can be extremely satisfying to clean your closet, organize your shoes, throw out junk from a drawer, get rid of old messages/photos/contacts from your phone etc. All of this does not have to be done in one day lol. Choose only one thing if that’s what you prefer. The feeling of accomplishment is absolutely worth it.
12. Comfort movies
Watching movies/shows is one of my most favorite pleasures in life. When I want to unwind, I like to put on a comfort show or movie. Sometimes I rewatch it again, or I will let it play on low volume in the background while I am doing something else. Doing this may help with overstimulation because the show or movie is familiar. As an introvert, I have learned that in moments of overwhelm, the thing I am longing for most is comfort.
I hope that this list gave you some ideas on how to recharge and take care of yourself when you are feeling drained. Being an introvert is an interesting experience, but the most important thing for you to know is that there is nothing wrong with who you are. You simply require comfort, familiarity, and moments of solitude to function at your best. & that is okay! Is there anything else you like to do to recharge? Let me know in the comments!
With love and gratitude,
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