When most people need to recharge, their go-to is to hang out with friends, get a massage, or other activities that involve hanging around “other people”. But the same isn’t true for an introvert.
The typical recharging activities mean spending time chatting it up with friends, perhaps strangers, or going out in large groups of people. This however does not appeal to introverts. So what are some ways to recharge as an introvert?
If you’re struggling to find ways to recharge as an introvert, you’re not alone. But just because you have to rely on different recharging activities doesn’t mean you’re entirely out of luck. There are many ways that you can feel recharged and ready to go – it just takes a bit more creativity and one-on-one activities.
1. Take a Long Drive
The number one pick for how to recharge as an introvert is to go for a long drive. Why? Because it is complete solidarity. You don’t have to worry about anyone coming home from work and barging in on your independent recharge time. You don’t have to worry about anyone talking to you.
When taking a long drive, you can be entirely alone. You can turn your phone on silent and be alone with your thoughts. Of course, that isn’t always appealing to the anxious introvert. If being entirely alone with your thoughts would send you into a nervous spiral, then turn on your favorite tunes and relax.
Aside from being alone, the best part about taking a long drive is that you can experience the beauty of the world around you. For some introverts, this is all that’s necessary to feel calm and be able to recharge. Plus, if you’re an artistic introvert, this might inspire your next picture.
2. Go Shopping Alone
This one might come as a bit of a shocker, whether you’re an introvert or curious about how an introvert recharges. But it’s true. You have to think of the bigger picture. Just because introverts don’t necessarily like to be around other people or talk all that much doesn’t mean they don’t like being out and about.
Going shopping is an excellent way to recharge. For some introverts, it may mean buying that new pair of shoes they have been eyeballing. A trip to the grocery store and marking off their grocery list is the best recharging method for others. Whatever your shopping wants or desires may need, consider it an option for recharging.
If you’re nervous about going into public during your recharge, one easy way to fend off potential conversations and feel alone is to wear a pair of headphones while you shop. If someone tries to engage, keep your answers short, and replace their earphone ASAP. It might seem rude, but you have to do what you have to do.
3. Go Home and Do Single Person Activities
The good news is, there are a lot of activities that one can do entirely by themselves. So, for an introvert looking to recharge, the best thing to do might be to head home and do something that will act as an outlet. Here are some tremendous single-person activities that will help you to relax and recharge.
- Art. Some introverts make excellent artists. They can express their thoughts and feelings using a paintbrush and canvas rather than saying them out loud. But even if you’re not an artist, you can relax with an adult coloring book. These “new” coloring books are designed to reduce stress and take your mind off things.
- Read a good book. The power of reading a good book is truly magical. Introverts who enjoy reading can get completely lost in a story. This gives them a safe space to ditch the real world and find a comfortable place to charge up.
- Write. It’s known that introverts typically have a hard time talking, especially when it comes to discussing their thoughts and feelings. So, what better way to release your inside emotions than through writing? Whether it’s a poem, a short story, or an entire book, writing can help you calm down and build up energy.
- Listen to music. It is commonly known that listening to music is one of the best ways to unwind. Whether you’re dealing with a breakup, excited about a new opportunity, or simply want to tune out the world as an introvert, one way to do it is to pop in your headphones and get lost in the music.
- Watch a favorite TV show or movie. Netflix and chill? That phrase gets a whole new meaning to an introvert. Introverts can rest on the couch, watching their favorite TV show or movie. If you’ve got the time, don’t hesitate to go on a Netflix binge and catch up on all the new episodes.
- Do absolutely nothing! Yes, some introverts find the most peace just sitting on their couch and recharging. There is no TV, no music, and no social media to infringe on their downtime. Don’t be afraid to turn everything off and enjoy peace when you need to.
4. Do a Single-Person Exercise
It’s no secret that exercise has a significant impact on health, both physical and mental. But for the introvert, signing up for a class or going to a gym sounds like a complete nightmare. Don’t worry, though. There are plenty of single-person exercises that can be done from the comfort of your home.
Benefits of Working Out
Why should exercising be at the top of your list for winding down as an introvert? Well, because there are so many benefits attached to exercise. Plus, there are some introvert-specific benefits you won’t want to miss out on.
- Weight control and managing blood sugar and insulin levels.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease and some cancers, such as breast and lung.
- Improves overall mental health and mood, which is imperative for an introvert.
- Keep your brain sharp.
- Strengthen bones and muscles.
- Improved sleep, which is an excellent choice for how to recharge quickly introvert.
- You save money working out from home rather than in a gym.
- There is no need to feel self-conscious or awkward about a red face or heavy breathing.
- You have the alone time to perfect your form.
As you can see, exercising is an excellent way for introverts to recharge and work on their general health. Plus, exercise plays a significant role in overall mental health. An introvert who has struggled with people all day will enjoy giving their mind a break and feeling refreshed when the workout is over.
Types of Single-Person Exercises
What are some excellent single-person exercises? Well, there are a lot of them. There are apps on your phone that can provide you with some excellent at-home workouts. There are also YouTube workout videos you can follow along to. Here are some top picks for single-person exercises.
- Yoga. Yoga is the king of all relaxing exercises. Adding yoga (and meditation) to your regular recharging routine will ensure that you’re able to gain energy from within. Here is an excellent yoga video that is only 20 minutes long and is geared towards those suffering from stress and anxiety.
- Dance. Simply turn on the radio and let your body do whatever it wants. Yes, this is an exercise, and a fun one at that. Not a great dancer? Have no fear. YouTube has thousands of workout dance videos, whether you want to learn to perform hip hop or ballet.
- HIIT. If you’re looking to torch calories and feel the burn as a way to recharge, then consider performing a HIIT exercise. This can be done on a treadmill, alternating between running and jogging. You can also follow along with a HIIT workout routine that typically includes a lot of jumping.
- Kickboxing. Nothing says destressing like punching and kicking a bag. This kit comes with everything you need to get started, and your introverted inner self will thank you.
5. Socialize with a Close Friend or Family Member
Where do introverts get their energy? Well, it’s certainly not from spending time with people – unlike the extrovert counterpart. So why is socializing on this list? You have to keep in mind that when it comes to how to recharge as an introvert, it doesn’t always mean absolute silence. Sometimes, socializing is a good thing, as long as the introvert is the one choosing their company.
If you are looking for how to recharge quickly introvert but don’t feel like spending the evening alone, consider calling up a best friend or a family member. Get together at a place you thoroughly enjoy. Make sure it is someone (or a few people) that you are comfortable with. After all, there is nothing more excruciating than feeling awkward in a group as an introvert.
Let the conversation flow naturally with your friends and have a good time.
6. Take a Self-Care Day
If you were to ask an extrovert what a self-care day looked like, they would probably mention things like going to the gym, getting a massage, or getting their hair and nails done. To the introvert, this sounds like something close to hell. But that doesn’t mean introverted self-care days don’t exist. They’re just done differently. Here’s how:
- Break out some essential oils. Essential oils such as lavender and eucalyptus are great for soothing the mind, body, and soul. It is known as aromatherapy and can be a spectacular tool for introverts that want to escape the hustle and bustle of life.
- Listen to spa music. You don’t have to be at the spa to get the spa experience. Here is some excellent spa music to get lost in and gain your energy back.
- Take a long bath. Pampering and taking a bath go hand-in-hand. To make this a recharging extravaganza, have the spa music playing and essential oils burning while you indulge in a nice, warm bubble bath. Sounds heavenly, doesn’t it?
- Take a nap. When you have had too much interaction with people, you need a break. Don’t be afraid to shut down entirely and take a nap. Get your favorite fluffy blanket and a nice pillow, curl up and call it an afternoon.
7. Spend Time in Nature
When you’re wondering how to recharge as an introvert, one great answer is to head out into nature. You have heard this as a tip at some point before, and it holds true. Spending time in nature is an easy way to increase your overall well-being and feel happier while reducing stress and negativity.
There are plenty of ways to get out and indulge in the world around you. Here are some top pics. Most of these activities are free, although some may require you to buy or rent special equipment to get the job done:
- Take a walk, run, or hike.
- Sit down on a green field and let the sun hit your face and body.
- Go swimming, preferably in a lake or river where there are fewer people.
- Read a book under a shady tree.
- Do yoga under the sun.
- Do a single-person beach activity such as paddle-boarding or surfing.
- Go skating around the block.
- Consider skiing or snowboarding.
How Long Do Introverts Need to Recharge?
If there is one common question that is asked by extroverts, it’s how long do introverts need to recharge? There is no one size fits all when it comes to this answer. How long an introvert needs to restore depends on the person and the situation.
For example, if the person has done their office job all day and has had minimal interaction with people, they should recharge that night. However, if they go to a wild and crazy party for a few hours, it could take weeks to restore, if not months. This doesn’t mean they won’t go out in public; they will avoid parties and keep interactions to a minimum.
What Happens When Introverts Don’t Get Alone Time?
Aside from how long an introvert needs to recharge, another common question is what happens when introverts don’t get alone time? When an introvert doesn’t get enough alone time, it is very damaging to their mental and physical health. Some symptoms an introvert may feel include:
- Overall fatigue.
- Feeling mentally and physically exhausted.
- Inability to concentrate.
- Feeling more irritable and annoyed than usual.
- Anxiety and depression.
6 Tips for Recharging As An Introvert
Being an introvert certainly has its pros and cons. But knowing how to recharge as an introvert can be life-changing. Now that you have seven great ways to wind down and build up energy, you’re almost set to take on the world. Here are a few more helpful tips that will ensure you can restore positively and smoothly.
1. Always Make Time for Recharging
As previously mentioned, an introvert who doesn’t get enough alone can feel tired and depressed. You want to avoid this feeling at all costs. With that said, always set aside time for recharging. Not only is it essential, but it’s something you can look forward to.
2. Don’t Rely on Extrovert Activities
Don’t try to rely on extrovert activities for restoration. Activities that help an extrovert recharge simply aren’t going to work for you. Don’t even bother trying. Although a massage or facial might appear to be enjoyable, you will be stuck in an endless vortex of chit chat with the individual performing the activity.
Instead, do what makes you feel happy and recharged. Although this list has seven great tips for restoring success, it doesn’t mean that they are all going to work for you. You need to find activities that specifically make you happy and no one else.
3. Be Honest With Your Loved Ones When You Need a Break
Tell your loved ones when you need a break. Some introverts feel guilty about wanting to be alone, but you shouldn’t. Don’t lock yourself in your room without an explanation, though. Tell your loved ones that you need time alone, and you won’t hurt anyone’s feelings.
Also, never feel guilty about needing a break. You are who you are. And, as an introvert, you need alone time. Don’t feel wrong about this. Just as one person might need a night out with their friends a few times a week, you need to be left alone for the same amount of time. Just be you!
4. Create a Schedule that Starts and Ends Your Day in Solidarity
Start and end your day alone. Are you wondering how to recharge quickly, introvert? Start your day and end your day alone. This means waking up a little bit earlier and making sure your smartphone is turned off before bedtime. Take this time to start and end your day on the right foot, the independent foot.
5. Never Compare Yourself to Others
Never compare yourself to an extrovert. Unfortunately, it’s common to feel lesser than an extrovert. They have no problem with going out with friends, so why can’t you? But this is the wrong way to think. Don’t compare yourself to an extrovert. You have different strengths and abilities than they do. Focus on yourself and how you can better yourself.
6. Get Rid of Excess Stimulation
Unfortunately, we are surrounded by stimulation from the moment we wake up until we fall asleep. Excessive stimulation is harmful to an introvert and can make them feel overwhelmed. So, the best advice is to reduce stimulation when you can. Yes, this means turning off the iPhone and relaxing in peace.
Final Thoughts
Introverts struggle with feeling drained and tired after a day of stimulation and activity with those around them. But recharging doesn’t have to be a challenge. There are many ways to feel your best, whether you’re engaging in a single-person exercise or taking an entire day for self-care. Find what works for you, find a great place to live that feels good to you, or choose the right job for an introvert, and always [ always ] make time to recharge.