We’ve all have felt down and sad from time to time. Often times these feelings are situational: something in your live has made you feel that way temporarily. And other times it could be because of hormonal disruptions led by too much sugar consumption.
So when you feel a little blue, how do you make yourself feel better (without a sugary treat)? Check out the 10-step process I follow to give myself grace and feel better instantly without having to resort to the low-nutrient, sugary treats.
1. Turn off the TV or phone
Do you know how you limit television time for your children and do not allow them to watch anything that could affect their mental state? Well, do the same for yourself. Limit the amount of harmful news and information you get on television or social media to no more than 15 mins a day. If you are feeling particularly bad, turn it off completely for at least a couple of days.
2. Eat some fruit
Now this is really a fun thing that could make you feel better. Believe it or not, eating some fruit could make you smile.
Ok, we all know that there are certain comfort foods that heal our pain, but what happens the next day? The next day, you only feel worse because you shoved all the pizza or ice cream pack down your throat. Fruit on the other hand is full of fiber, enzymes and phytochemicals your body needs to stay healthy and strong. This could satisfy your sweet tooth without undoing your mental state with low-nutrient foods.
3. Smell of oranges
Scientists have concluded that the smell of oranges makes people happier. That is why you will find this particular scent in many offices, as well as many spas and massage parlors. Use it in your home or office.
4. Workout
This is especially good for those of us overtly concerned about our appearance. Take a walk, do some home yoga or resistance training. Anything that would help you increase your heart rate, break a sweat and with it, release endorphins (happy hormones). Exercise can also help reduce stress hormones so it is a win-win.
5. Choose your friends wisely
You should not be around people who like to point out your flaws. Many of them do not mean harm, but yes, they may be adding to your stress and sad feelings. Some people call these, “energy vampires” and they are damn good at making you feel wretched. Choose the company of friends who make you laugh and feel good about yourself.
6. Give someone a big compliment
Acknowledging someone not only help that person feel wonderful, it will have the exact same effect on you: increased feelings of peace, joy and happiness. Even third party witnesses benefit from kind words to others. Try it!
7. Take a walk outside
I whole-heartedly believe that most of our problems would disappear with a simple walk in the park or the forest or the beach. The next time someone makes you angry or upset for any other reason, put on your shoes and go for a walk.
8. Treat yourself
Something kind and useful, like a massage, pedicure or manicure… anything that feels like a fun treat that bring you several minutes to an hour of joy
9. Learn to feel better about yourself
All of our problems tend to look much bigger if we are no longer satisfied with ourselves. To reduce those problems, write down the wonderful things you have going on for yourself: your talents, your goals, your hard work, your best attribute. Remembering how wonderful you are will slowly help you feel better more times of the day than not.
10. Learn how to make someone else feel better
Happy people around us will bring happiness to our lives as well. Surround yourself with positive people and let them transfer some of their energy to you as well.
by Kingdom Branding