We all have down days. Those days when you don’t feel like doing anything and just generally feel negative… Which sucks! So I thought I’d share a few tips that I use to help those dark days get a little brighter :)
Have a bath
There’s nothing nicer than having a long soak in a tub full of bubbles at the end of a long day. Make your bath a calming sanctuary, create some bubbles, light a few candles and play some chill music to set the mood. You can really go to town with this! Whether you’re a bath person or not, treat yourself to a bit of a pamper session and scrub away the bad vibes!
Listen to Music
I always find it fun to dance like no one is watching and sing like no one can hear me. Play tracks that are upbeat and fun, something you can sing along, have a boogie and enjoy yourself to!
Meditate
I’ve been getting into meditation and mindfulness every now and then for about a year now, and I find it a great way to clear my mind and take some time out for myself. If you’re not sure what meditation means, it's about focusing on the present. It allows you to stop stressing about what could happen or what did happen, and live in the now. I find that by trying to do this on my own, my mind starts to wander and before I know it I’m stressing again. So I’ve been using calm.com which I have as an app on my phone. This is a guided meditation, where you can listen to and focus on a voice that tells you what to do. This app allows you to set your mood, choose the type of session you want, and even choose your time limit. So even if you need to be out the door in 2 minutes, you can squeeze in a little mindfulness.
Get Some Fresh Air
I can guarantee you that stepping outside and taking a deep breath of fresh air will help you to de-stress and feel refreshed. Lie in the sunshine for a while, walk your dog or play with your pets. Just make time to get out of your office/house/stressful situation and enjoy the outdoors.
Exercise
It's no secret that exercise is incredible for your body. If you exercise regularly you’ll see and feel amazing benefits. Doing physical activity will give you something different to focus on and put your energy into. Plus, it is said that exercise will boost your mood, alertness, concentration and even your optimism to look on the bright side.
Create Something
Anything that is simple and repetitive and requires your full attention can have a calming, meditative quality. So colour in, bake, draw or even build something. These activities feel therapeutic and you’ll feel pleased when looking at your finished product!
Make a To-do List
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the number of tasks you have to complete, create a to-do list and tick things off as you do them. Not only is this a way to prioritise and stay on top of what needs to be done, but you’ll feel rewarded every time you tick something off!
Get a good night’s sleep
There’s no doubt that a restful sleep is beneficial for your mind and body. If you sleep well you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day ahead! Avoid using technology an hour before going to bed; the light from a phone, computer etc. will strain you eyes and tell your brain to stay awake. Try reading a book or meditating before heading off to sleep.
Take Time Out For Yourself
Do something that you enjoy. Whether this is watching a movie, surfing the internet, painting etc. Whatever it is, take some time to do what makes you happy. You need to give yourself breaks and rest, so have some fun doing what makes you feel great!
I hope that wherever you are, you are feeling great. And if not I’m hoping these tips will brighten up your day :) Bella x
