We spend a lot of our time searching for ways to calm down, and that’s fine. A low-stress lifestyle is the key to ideal functionality, synonymous with quality sleep. We usually can’t have one without the other. But how about those times when our mood needs to alter, but not necessarily into ultra-chill mode?
Our days demand so much from us. We must be different kinds of “on” at different intervals throughout the day, whether it involves being “chill”, or calm, or maybe we must be motivated, or sometimes we just want to feel off and happy…simple as that.
We can plan our actions to set ourselves up for the mood and momentum we want to shift into. These little tips are simple, usually fit into a typical daytime routine, and can make a major impact on the way we feel in a short period of time. Below are some modes we need to alter our mood to, and how to get there.
Energized/Motivated
When we feel low in energy, whether physically or emotionally, these tricks may help jumpstart our brain into action.
Cold shower.
Even if you’re not a cold shower person, a cold rinse of about 30 seconds to two minutes will be similar to a cup of coffee for your lymph and circulatory systems.
Solo dance party
Recommended time: 10 minutes. But if you only have time for one song, that will work too. Music carries vibrations, and vibrations can completely manipulate how you feel. Imagine spa music – there’s a reason EDM music isn’t blasting while you get a massage. Listen to an upbeat tune and let yourself dance around to get that blood flowing. Studies say it can even boost interpersonal and cognitive skills.
Happy
While as nation we think we have many mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, we don’t always have to be categorically depressed to be just sad or feeling down. To turn that frown upside down, try these tips.
Cardio
Elle Woods said it best, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” She was right. The endorphins we receive from a cardio workout chemically boosts the happiness hormones, so we don’t even have to worry about it.
Journaling/Drawing
Including but not limited to these two practices, about 30 minutes of a free practice like this that has no real goals or expectations, just flowing and having fun, can completely shift the funk you’re in. If journaling is your thing, kick it up a notch and try listing some things you’re grateful for.
Calm
Tips to move into a state of calm should be anyone’s goal. We can’t function reasonably or optimally, mentally or physically, when we are in a serious state of stress, so regulating our minds and bodies is the first order of business.
Grounding
If chronic stress seems like it’s an embedded part of your lifestyle, ensure to ground at least once a week. Grounding practice you can do at home are good, but be sure to get out in nature at least one time per week, whether it’s walking barefoot at the park near your house for 10 minutes or planning a hike on the weekend.
Breathwork
Breathwork is incredibly effective, transformative and available to everyone. Try five minutes of box breathing – inhale for four counts, hold for four counts, exhale for four counts, and hold the out-breath for four counts. Your cortisol will plummet.
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