5 Simple Ways to Feel Better Today
Lots of people — myself included — occasionally find themselves in a funk. Sometimes there’s a reason behind it, like a break up or the loss of a pet, or maybe it stems from frustration over an injury or a stressful project at work. For many, the weather can definitely be a factor.
But sometimes there’s no apparent cause. You just feel off — you’re slower to smile or laugh, maybe you’re more tired than usual, and finding motivation to do anything beyond what absolutely must be done is hard.
This isn’t fun, but let me assure you, it’s not unusual. Some folks bounce back quickly and some hide it better than others, but tons of people experience this.
In my case, I’ve been through it enough times that I know I’ll come out the other side just fine (although, here is where I have to say that if you’re not sure what’s going on, you feel unable to complete daily tasks, or thoughts of harm are crossing your mind, please seek help from a professional). And sure, I might spend a little more time in bed or curled up on the couch than usual, but that doesn’t mean I’m not fighting. I’ve got a few simple, truly doable things that help me feel better, fast — and I think they might help you, too.
5 Ways to Feel Better Today
1. Drink water. No, really — drink lots of it. You will feel better physically, your mind will be clearer, and, not for nothing, but having to pee will force you to get up and move.
2. Take a shower and put on clean clothes. This is one of the most underestimated actions around, in my opinion. Wash your hair, use a soap or body wash that smells really good, and get some clean, soft clothes on — even if it’s just a new set of sweats to wear on the couch for the day.
3. Talk to someone. Oh, I know — being vulnerable is the worst. But feeling this way can be scary, and sharing the burden with someone you trust can ease the load a bit. I find it helpful knowing that someone I love will check in with me, and to know that if I need something, I can ask for it? Huge.
4. Breathe fresh air. Easier to do when it’s nice out, I know, but try to spend at least a few minutes outside. Obviously, going for a walk or something is ideal, but if that’s not happening, just know that stepping outside is a great first step. Maybe you’ll even want to get barefoot on the grass!
5. Acknowledge that the negative thoughts you’re having are untrue. It doesn’t mean that thought pattern will stop immediately, but it takes power away from them. You might even picture whoever is saying those things as someone ridiculous — laugh at them, if you can, for being so absurd.
This is really only a start, but if you ask me, that might be exactly what’s needed when the suck has got you down. You don’t need to jump out of bed ready to take on the world — just find ways to work toward your normal self. You’ve got this.
Any tips you would add? I also think stepping away from the screen can be a huge help. —Kristen