How to Reconnect With Yourself: 8 Everyday Habits for Emotional Wellness
Life can get busy, and before we know it, we find ourselves disconnected—physically, mentally, and emotionally. But it doesn't have to be this way. There are simple, everyday practices we can all integrate into our lives to feel more grounded and connected with ourselves. If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you're in the right place.
I want to share some practices that have had a major impact on my emotional and mental well-being, and I hope they’ll do the same for you. These are things I do regularly.
Let’s dive in.
1. Start With One Simple Question: Journaling Made Easy
Let’s talk about journaling for a minute. I know some of you might be thinking, “I’m not a journaler,” or “That doesn’t really work for me.” And I get it. But what if you gave this one simple thing a try?
Each day, ask yourself this one question:
“Dear God (or whatever works for you), what do you want me to know or see today?”
This isn’t about having a huge revelation or trying to figure everything out all at once. It’s more about giving yourself a moment to pause, quiet the noise, and invite guidance into your day. Whether that’s God, your inner wisdom, or simply the clarity you need—allow yourself to make space and listen.
For me, this practice has been such a game-changer. It’s helped me work through feelings of doubt, shame, and anxiety. It brings a sense of peace and perspective that I don’t always find elsewhere.
You can always write it down in a notebook or journal that feels safe to you. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to do this. Just trust the process and see where it leads. You might be surprised by what shows up.
2. Slow Down to Recharge
Sometimes, we need that “reset” moment where we give ourselves permission to do nothing. Maybe for you, that looks like taking a break from the busyness of life to reconnect with what really matters.
What do you need to let go of to make space for your mental and emotional health? The answer may be as simple as slowing down.
Taking the time to step back, recharge, and reconnect with what truly matters makes all the difference. It's not always about doing more. Sometimes it's about doing less to let yourself breathe and be.
3. Get Back to Your Practices (Even the Small Ones)
Life gets busy, and sometimes we drop the practices that keep us grounded. I know I do. But when I made time to get back to the simple practices I’ve taught my clients over the years—journaling, reflecting, meditating—it made a huge difference.
Whether it's a five-minute breathing exercise in the morning or a quick gratitude practice, find a routine that works for you. If you’re feeling out of touch with yourself, getting back into these habits is a great place to start. You’ll feel emotionally clearer and more connected to yourself when you do.
4. Set Your Intentions (Instead of “Goals”)
Every day, write out 10 intentions. Don’t worry about them being perfect. Just check in with what you want to focus on. It could be something like "be more patient" or "make time for creativity," but it helps you stay grounded in what truly matters.
Rather than getting caught up in external expectations (or that dreaded “goal-setting pressure”), intentions come from a place of self-awareness and connection. They allow you to align your day with what you truly need, not what the world or society expects from you.
5. A Simple Planner Can Make All the Difference
I use a planner every day. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it really helps me stay focused on my emotional well-being. Some people use planners with calendars, but I personally prefer ones with a gratitude practice or daily intentions. These planners help me stay connected to what really matters—like how I’m feeling and what my emotional priorities are that day.
Find a planner that works for you, or simply use a notebook to jot down what’s most important. Just writing down what you want to focus on, be it your to-do list, your gratitude, or your feelings, helps you stay connected to the present moment.
6. Avoid Toxic Habits (Like Alcohol)
I know this one might be tough to hear, but it’s important. Alcohol can have a huge impact on your mental health. I’ve seen it too many times in my work—how alcohol can affect relationships, stifle emotional growth, and hinder clarity of mind.
If you're relying on alcohol as a coping mechanism, it’s time to reflect on how it's serving you (or not serving you).
Reducing or eliminating alcohol might be one of the most powerful ways to clear your mind and help your emotional growth.
7. Listen to Inspiring Podcasts or Books
If you’re like me and find yourself scrolling on your phone instead of connecting inwardly, try listening to something that inspires you. Whether it’s a podcast, audiobook, or even a YouTube channel, make space for things that help you grow and feel less alone. Podcasts, especially, have taught me so much over the years, and I always walk away with new insights.
8. Have Hard Conversations with Love
Lastly, I want to talk about something that we often avoid—having difficult conversations. Whether it’s with a partner, friend, or family member, avoiding hard conversations only keeps us stuck. It keeps us in cycles of resentment, misunderstanding, and emotional distance.
What if we could have these conversations with love instead of fear? What if we could show up, speak our truth, and listen deeply? It might be uncomfortable, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to build emotional wellness.
There you have it—8 practices to support your emotional and mental health.
I want you to know that no matter where you are on your journey, these things can help you reconnect with yourself and create the space for healing. Take it slow, be gentle with yourself, and know that you’re not alone in this.
I’d love to hear from you—how are these practices working for you? Feel free to share your journey with me anytime. And don’t forget to grab your free journal to get started.
With love and support,
- Kristen D Boice M.A., LMFT, EMDR Trained
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