From Cranky to Calm: A lesson in Counterbalance

Last Sunday was one of those stomp-around-like-a-toddler-not-knowing-what-I-want days. I woke up feeling okay, but by noon, everyone and everything was getting on my nerves.

Two days before, I'd been recovering from a super fun yet go-go-go vacation that left my extrovert tank empty. All I wanted was to introvert in my hiding spot (a.k.a. my bed). But by Sunday, even though I was still tired and wanted to rest, my mood had other plans. I was irritated, annoyed, and restless. I felt like a toddler on the verge of a meltdown.

Ever have those internal dialogues where different parts of you are duking it out? Mine went something like this:

"Why are you so pissed off?"

"I don't know. I just am!"

"Maybe you should get out of the house and go for a hike."

"It's raining and cold, and I deserve to rest."

"A. It's not cold, B. You love rain hikes. C. You've been resting for two days! Get off your butt and move this energy."

"Don't tell me what to do."

"Fine, be a cranky little B and just sit here and sulk."

Five minutes later...

"Okay, fiiiiiine!!"

(Please tell me I'm not the only one who has these internal debates!)

Anyway, the point is that a part of me thought it needed more rest and mindless activities, but too much of that was making me crawl out of my skin. This is when I know it's time to counterbalance.

Counterbalancing is this beautiful concept where we recognize that sometimes, what we think we need isn't actually what serves us best. It's about finding that sweet spot between opposing forces in our lives.

Think about it - if you work in front of a computer all day, your body and mind might crave more screen time to "relax." But what you really need is to get outside, move your body, and connect with nature. That's counterbalance in action.

In my case, I thought I needed more rest, but my irritability was a clear sign that I needed to shift gears. So, despite my inner toddler's protests, I laced up my hiking boots and headed out into the rain.

And it was exactly what the doctor ordered. Within five minutes of my hike, I felt the irritability dissolve into the earth beneath my feet.

The cool rain, earthy scents, and rhythm of my steps worked in harmony, resetting my mood. Nature had transformed my cranky toddler self into a grounded, peaceful adult. By the time I got home, I felt like a different person.

So, next time you feel off-kilter, ask yourself: What do I need to counterbalance?

Maybe it’s some movement if you’ve been sedentary or some quiet time if you’ve been overstimulated. Listen to your inner dialogue, even when it’s cranky, and take that step (or hike) toward finding your balance again.

Thank you for reading. Until next time, may you find your a healthy balance, even if it means dancing in the rain when you'd rather stay in bed.