Three Ways to Care for Your Health When You're Feeling Down

I think given the choice, most of us would prefer to be shining beacons of health every day rather than feeling run down. Unfortunately, being human means embracing both the highs and lows in all aspects of life—including our health.

Health can be as unpredictable as the winter weather: one day calm and crisp, the next a full-blown storm. Just as we adjust to the shifting seasons, we must learn to adapt to the changing needs of our bodies.

Through working with clients facing all kinds of health challenges—and navigating my own—I’ve realized that I am always learning. Our bodies are dynamic, constantly shifting and responding to the world around us. Approaching our well-being with a beginner’s mind allows us to stay open to what our bodies are communicating and adjust accordingly.

Getting curious about our body’s messages takes patience. In recent years, science has revealed that we are not just connected to the universe—we are universes unto ourselves. Through lifestyle choices, we can cultivate a thriving internal ecosystem, influence our own electromagnetic field, and even rewire neural pathways. Honestly, that’s a lot to take in!

While it’s empowering to consider all the factors within our control, it’s equally frustrating when we encounter something we can’t. On our health hero’s journey, sometimes it’s more helpful to focus on surfing the waves rather than calming the storm.

Here are three ways to nurture yourself when you’re feeling low:

Keep a Bird’s Eye View: Dr. Google can be a fickle friend. While it’s unrealistic to swear off symptom-searching entirely, beware of rabbit holes. If necessary, set a timer or ask someone you trust to look things up and relay only the essential information. The human body is a mystery that’s been studied for centuries, so odds are yours won’t be fully understood in one (even if it’s six hours long!) Google search.

Plant a Seed: Do something simple that helps you feel more in control of your health. Make an appointment with a trusted healthcare provider. Nourish yourself with a warming, anti-inflammatory meal (or better yet, let someone else cook it for you!). Small steps can soothe the mind, which in turn may positively impact your overall well-being.

Create Community: Winter can feel isolating, making connection even more important. Join a support group—whether in person or online—with people who truly understand your struggles. On difficult days, knowing you’re not alone can be a powerful reminder that we’re all in this together.

Just as winter eventually gives way to spring, our bodies are always moving through cycles of challenge and renewal. With patience, perspective, and a little self-compassion, we can navigate even the stormiest seasons with grace.