We wouldn’t be human if we didn’t experience feeling down, sad, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or maybe even run down at times. The feeling of being stuck in that state of mind can sneak up on us so I think it’s important we all know ways on how to make ourselves feel better—so it no longer impacts our daily lives.

I’ve got some tips below on how you can improve your mood but just know that if you want to stay in bed for a couple of hours—or for the day, know that it is okay to do so. We are always told to get up and not waste the day but if we don’t recover, lay down, or even cry if we need to, how are we able to understand our emotions? If we don’t understand our emotions, how are we able to heal ourselves? So, I guess what I am trying to say is, let those tears fall. Sleep all day if you need to, understand what you are feeling, accept it, and only after you have cried your little heart out, will you get up and follow the steps below to make yourself feel better. 

MAKE A ROUTINE

Some people would shudder at the thought of having a predictable routine, while others love to have a solid schedule. Having a consistent and structured routine will help you feel more organised and in control when aspects of your life feel uncertain or overwhelming. It can play an important role in mental health because a regular routine helps lower stress levels, helps form good habits, and helps you feel more productive and focused when you make a routine that works for your lifestyle.

MAKE YOUR BED

Now, I am not the best at making my bed on a daily basis, but I can tell you right now that when I do—I instantly feel better. It’s a simple habit and quite often can lead to better productivity. There are many reasons as to why one should make their bed every morning, but my reasons are mostly because my room will look tidy, and I’ll be less likely to get back into bed.

GO FOR A WALK

Forget about the past. Don’t think of your future problems. Focus on the now. Focus your energies on generating happiness. If the weather allows it, go for a walk, and smell the beautiful flowers. A change of scenery and fresh air really make a difference.

READ A BOOK

When an author transcends you into a different realm—there is no other experience quite like it. People read because they experience emotions that one cannot feel in real life so what better way to escape reality than by reading a book? If you need to get out of a rut, don’t read a book that has a heavy storyline. Instead, find a book that is an easy light read that will leave you laughing and smiling.

MEET A FRIEND FOR COFFEE

It can be easy to withdraw from the world but it’s important to make sure you continue to nurture your friendships. Having a coffee/tea/chai with friends, even just for an hour, will improve your mood.

SELF-CARE DAY

A self-care routine can help improve your wellbeing and help you feel your best. It doesn’t have to be an expensive routine, but you need to make sure it's suited to you because everyone is different. It could be swaddling yourself in a comfy blanket, DIY face masks, or just simply breathing in calming essential oils.

JOURNAL

You can choose if it's at the start of the day or the end of the day, but a brain dump journal entry is an easy and effective way for mental clarity. We all have things on our mind that can become overwhelming, but a brain dump helps declutter your mind and allows you to think with purpose.

GET YOUR HAIR CUT

A haircut will not simply rid us of our emotional struggles, but I would say it is an easy ‘pick me up’. Having someone washing, massaging and brushing your hair is a very relaxing experience and it could possibly reduce your stress and anxiety. You will instantly feel refreshed with a trim or a new hairstyle.

LIMIT SOCIAL MEDIA

While social media is addictive and helps you feel connected to your loved ones, studies show it can also lead to anxiety, depression, and even give you unrealistic expectations on how one's life should be. 

Try limiting your social media time. Set a timer or set a limit on your phone that alerts you when you have reached it if you need extra help. 

Or…just stay off it until you feel you are ready to go back on again.

ASK FOR HELP

I can be the queen of letting my emotions build up to a point where it is hard to come back from a depressive episode. But it’s not an inconvenience to ask for help! Do yourself a favour and ask your loved ones for help because sometimes they have the simplest solutions, and you couldn’t see it because your mind was clouded. You won’t regret it.  

When you feel like life keeps throwing you obstacles and you just don’t feel yourself anymore, try the above tips, hit the mindset reset button, and find your way back to a calmer and positive place. 

"You can’t pour from an empty cup." -Unknown

Following the above will help keep your cup full. 

I’d love to hear from you on how you get back on your feet when you’re in a funk. Leave a comment below with any tips you have!

Bye for now,

Emmylou