August can feel like a tipping point. The first half of the month often carries the energy of summer freedom, while the second half hints at the structure of fall. This in-between season is the perfect time to pause and ask yourself an important question:
Am I nourishing myself—or just numbing out?
We all fall into patterns that make us feel better in the short term but leave us drained over time. The scroll through social media. The late-night snacks. The third cup of coffee. These habits might feel comforting in the moment, but they don’t actually replenish us.
The truth is, there’s a big difference between nourishing habits that fuel your mind and body and numbing habits that just help you pass the time.
Here’s how to spot the difference—and how to reset your energy in the second half of the month.
What Does “Numbing” Look Like?
Numbing is what we do when we’re tired, stressed, or overwhelmed and we just want to check out.
Some common examples include:
- Scrolling endlessly on your phone.
- Reaching for snacks when you’re not hungry.
- Binge-watching shows until you fall asleep.
- Pouring another drink instead of addressing your stress.
- Filling every spare moment with noise, so you don’t have to sit with your thoughts.
These aren’t “bad” things on their own. Watching a show or enjoying dessert can be part of a balanced life. The difference is in the why and the how often. When these habits become your main way of coping, they keep you from feeling truly restored.
What Does “Nourishing” Look Like?
Nourishment, on the other hand, is about giving yourself what you genuinely need to feel better in the long run.
Examples include:
- Drinking water when you’re low on energy.
- Taking a short walk instead of another coffee.
- Cooking a meal with fresh ingredients.
- Journaling to process your thoughts.
- Going to bed on time.
- Spending quiet moments outdoors.
Nourishing choices may take a little more effort at first, but they leave you with more energy, clarity, and calm.
A Simple Mid-Month Check-In
Here’s a quick way to reset your habits:
- Pause. Take a few minutes to reflect on how you’ve been spending your time this month.
- Notice patterns. Which activities have left you feeling recharged? Which ones left you more tired or distracted?
- Choose one shift. Pick just one habit to adjust for the rest of the month. Maybe you swap late-night scrolling for reading before bed, or trade an afternoon soda for water and a quick stretch.
Small, consistent changes often make the biggest difference. (Quiet down, impatience.)
Why It Matters Mid-Month
The middle of the month is a powerful moment. You have two weeks behind you and two weeks ahead.
This is your chance to course-correct before the month slips away. If you’ve fallen into numbing patterns, now is the time to shift gently toward choices that help you feel grounded, clear, and energized.
Practical Ways to Nourish Yourself
Here are some easy swaps you can try right away:
- Instead of scrolling before bed → read a chapter of a book or write down three things you’re grateful for.
- Instead of reaching for sweets when stressed → take a five-minute walk or do a few deep breaths. Note to self…
- Instead of binge-watching TV all weekend → set aside one evening for a creative hobby or time with friends.
- Instead of pouring another cup of coffee → drink a tall glass of water and stretch your shoulders.
You don’t have to overhaul your life. Just start with one or two shifts that feel doable.
A Journal Prompt for Reflection
If you’d like to go deeper, here’s a simple prompt to write about:
- “When I’m tired or stressed, what do I usually turn to? Does it truly restore me—or just distract me?”
- “What’s one small nourishing choice I can make today that my future self will thank me for?”
Sometimes putting your thoughts on paper makes it easier to see where small changes can make a big difference.
The Bottom Line
By mid-August, it’s natural to feel stretched thin. Life pulls in many directions, and habits can slip. But you don’t have to wait until a new month—or a new season—to reset. You can start right now.
Ask yourself: Is this nourishing me or numbing me? That one question can guide your choices for the rest of the month. And when you choose nourishment, you’re choosing energy, clarity, and a sense of peace that numbing habits can never give.
This August, give yourself the gift of a reset. Keep what feels good, let go of what doesn’t, and carry forward habits that leave you feeling truly alive.
Suzanne Horrocks 