Resetting After a Bad Day

By Sarah Lee

2 min read

On days where the emotional baggage that comes with living with a chronic illness pours down on us, sometimes it feels like there is no getting out of it. That the day will drag out until tomorrow and all that’s left to do is wither away into our puddle of tears. I’ve experience plenty of days like these and I think it’s important to note that it’s vital to our mental health to allow ourselves the space to fully feel these emotions. After a day of sitting in my own sorrows and turmoil, I like to dedicate my next day as a “reset” day.

I like to lay out my clothes the night before

This action is more than just laying out clothes. It’s in this action that I force myself to step out of this state of depression and into a mindset of “tomorrow will be a better day.” Rather than focusing on how bad the day was, I’m mentally planning out how I can make tomorrow better—starting out with my clothes. Whether it be something extra cozy or something that will really make me feel in my skin, I lay something out that will help set the tone for tomorrow and start my day right.

I don’t set any expectations on myself

I don’t plan to wake up early, or to even sleep in. Whatever will happen, will happen. If I sleep in it’s because my body is asking for rest. If I wake up early because of any pain, I don’t get upset because I wasn’t putting that pressure on myself to sleep in. I don’t plan any productivity that way I don’t beat myself up if I am too fatigued to finish anything. If I do end up doing something productive, I can end that day feeling proud of myself.

I try to do something that gets me out of my head

Finding an activity to do that gets me out of my head and focusing on the present moment really helps me reset my mindset and recharge. Whatever this means for you may be different, but for me it’s art or reading. When I draw on my iPad, often times I find hours pass by without a single intrusive thought entering my brain. It makes all of my problems fade away for a few hours. If I do this and read my book for about 30 minutes, yesterday feels like it has already faded into the rear-view mirror.

I try to eat healthier, but I also treat myself

I don’t exactly eat unhealthily, but on a reset day, I try my best to be extra kind to my body. I make sure to drink more water than I normally would and I usually eat more fruit. Some days I’ll treat myself to a McDonalds coffee because it makes me happy. I’ll also let myself have a snack at the end of the day, which is usually chocolate of some kind. It’s not about eating like a health-nut, it’s about finding balance in prioritizing both your body and your mental health.

Reset day is about taking a beat from the traumas of chronic illness to treat yourself, do the things that make you feel happy, and overall reminding yourself that you are worthy of self-love and that better days are ahead.

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The AxialSpondyloarthritis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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Rebecca C Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Sarah Lee" user-id="2106878"/> - Recently had such a horrible day. Tried to get too much done after a really really bad week. Sat in the shower on my stool and just let it all out - cried for a good 30 mins, then picked myself up. If the stool wasn't there, I would have been on the shower floor. Having this chronic disease is devastating. It was such a tough day for me. But I felt the emotions, and then dried myself off, dressed comfortably, made some food, and sat on my bed and binge-watched my series. I truly love your idea of a reset day - I've had to make mine a reset hour bc I am managing hour by hour right now. Wishing everyone pain relief and less fatigue - Rebecca (axspa advocate)
Julie Vallortigara Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="Sarah Lee" user-id="2106878"/> Hi, I really like your article and the approach you have to self care after a bad day. It's full of good advice and with self love and compassion, quite inspiring really. I will bear in mind that 'reset day' idea next time I am going through a tough time. Take care, Julie.
Anna Samson Moderator & Contributor
I love the idea of a reset day! You let your body do what it needs to do without setting any expectations or restrictions. This is exactly what I need to start implementing after days where the world seems to crash down. Thank you so much.
James Hollens Moderator & Contributor
Hi <inline-mention username="Sarah Lee" user-id="2106878"/> , This is such a wonderful idea I absolutely love it! I don't think I've ever given myself a reset day before, just cut myself a bit of slack on times when I've been a bit lazy or eaten a bit of junk! I'm definitely going to try this out for myself after the next rough patch (which hopefully isn't too soon!). Thank you so much for sharing, James (Community Member)
Nicky Flikas Moderator
 Hey <inline-mention username="Sarah Lee" user-id="2106878"/> , I enjoyed this article so much and found it very helpful. I usually tend to be hard on myself feeling always down and awful. I love the idea of setting clothes for the next day and helping tomorrow start into a chance of having a better day. That is one of my goals for the upcoming new year. I usually stay in pjs most of the day and I think it is important to get dressed like you said even in a nice comfy outfit that will help in feeling better about ourselves. I do the same thing in treating myself into a nice coffee or treat once a day. Doesn't mean it's unhealthy, as it help bring my mood up. You are right and I am so glad to hear on how you are seeing things. You are so right you are worthy and worthy of self love. Chronic illness doesn't define any of it. You are right the better days are a head. I find this article inspired me. Thank you for sharing. Wishing you well, Nicky (Team member)