As I write this blog, I am deeply aware that I haven’t been in a happy or calm mind space. Such is the nature of this particular moment in time. Everyone is emotionally exhausted and physically exhausted. You might even be detached on many levels but your humanity is being triggered at this moment. The mind is angry and tired and hasn’t had rest in a while and maybe I am writing this because I too desperately need to remember these point as I try to survive daily. This is me trying and I hope you all will too because truly believe that this too shall pass.
Here’s a look at a few pointers on how to feel calmer and happier:
1) Count your blessings.
Man oh man, I recognise my privilege with the roof over my head, the space to be safe, food on my table and access to medicines, a comfortable bed. I am very thankful and not a day should go by where you forget to count your blessings. Also, it is so important to acknowledge that you’re doing the best and sometimes that is all and enough to expect from yourself.
2) Put down your electronics for an hour daily.
We can become easily overwhelmed if we’re constantly on our phones. The paranoia of missing a text, important email or just general FOMO is real. Nothing is more important than your peace of mind. Do this if you want to be happier, you will notice how much calmer you are when you aren’t looking into a screen.
3) Sleep if you feel tired.
This is key, I often find myself procrastinating when I want to sleep. I’ll always remember an urgent task that needs my attention and I will put it off. But sleep because nothing will have you feeling fresh and rejuvenated quite like a nap. If you wanna feel calmer, try taking a nap in the middle of the day. OMG! this has been a revelation to me on some days when I just cannot force myself to function.
4) Cry if you need to.
Crying is a great way to express pain and great. We all experience a certain kind of lightness after a nice good cry. Sometimes I’ll cry myself to sleep and wake up like none of the pain I felt even existed. There’s something just so therapeutic about crying that you ultimately can’t help but feel happier after the act. Just don’t dwell on it forever, cry and move on.
5) Take care of your health.
I am going to be hella candid here, I’ve let myself go in this last year. Certain circumstances haven’t allowed me to let my health be the focus and I can’t tell you how wrong I am. I have betrayed my body and deprived it of a life it deserves, but you know what it is not too late. I have begun the journey and my body feel much better. So eat right, exercise, drink lots of water and meditate and if you can’t meditate then just sit in silence for 5 minutes a day. You will definitely feel calmer and lighter.
6) Learn something new.
Learning something new can help you refocus your energy even if it’s negative. It gives you purpose and brings with it some joy of curiosity and a new challenge. It will make you feel far more accomplished and productive during this time. You’re also bound to feel happier with any progress you experience, so give it a shot.
7) Celebrate the small victories.
I had a great performance review so I celebrated by cooking my favourite meal. I am all about celebrating the small things. Small joys are really what life is all about. So celebrate those small victories today and stop waiting on other people to be cheerleaders for you. Be your own cheerleader and see how far that’ll take you in life.
8) Spend quality time with yourself.
It is in these times that you become self-aware. We truly understand and process information when we are trying to be one with ourselves. Of course, spend time with friends and family that make you feel safe and loved and do lean on them for support. But also give your self some space to uncover facets about your life. There is no time like the present to be present. This will for sure make you happier in the long run.
9) Make someone smile.
Good energy is contagious. When you are of a happier disposition notice how the other person interacting with you also immediately perks up. Make another person smile, it is a different kind of joy one can spark.
10) Focus on finding solutions.
It is very easy to climb into a deep abyss of darkness, especially in trying times like these. So the best thing to do is not wallow in self-pity or the way the situation is but try to find a helpful resolve. This will help you be happier and optimistic about life in general. Also, this is simply a good habit to form. Nobody wants a negative Nelly in their lives. Funny because my name is Nelly. Simply let go of the things you cannot control.
What do you do to feel calmer and happier in life? Let us know in the comments below.
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