Loving yourself is a difficult battle since life is a rollercoaster and you must ensure that you are happy and safe at all times.
So, what do you do for yourself to ensure that? It’s okay if you’re struggling, but small moves can go a long way.
If you ask me what makes my day or life better in general, I would say food and books. Is that it, though?
Obviously not. I have a big list.
When I’m feeling depressed, overwhelmed, disappointed, demotivated, stressed, anxious, you name it, everything on “My big list” helps me feel better.
So, what is on this list?
My list (which I call “the feel-good list”) includes a variety of small and goofy activities and actions that may or may not apply to you. But believe me, they’re worth a shot.
How Can You Feel Better About Yourself?
Just even the most simple task, such as showering, feels tough, or when getting out of bed feels like a great accomplishment, finding tiny moments of fun and joy is essential.
When you are drained, depleted, or depressed, you need to take some action to bring yourself back to earth. That’s how you feel better about yourself.
Make sure you get sufficient sleep, eat healthy food, and drink enough liquid. Exercise can also help you feel better and have more energy.
Try some of the activities on my ‘Feel-Good List.’
Let me restate this disclaimer: not everything on the list will definitely apply to you when you are low, but some will.
I’m sharing a few from my feel-good list with you today to remind you that you can get yourself out of a funk and be joyful. Just like I do.
Take a walk
Nature heals both your mind and body. Physical activity, in general, enhances mood and has been linked to depression decreases. Working out is also an option.
Going on a stroll and getting some fresh air quickly enhances your mood, reduces worry and stress, and improves your overall health.
Take in your surroundings, listen to yourself think, and reflect on yourself.
Take a breather
You should take a break and do nothing without feeling guilty. Our generation’s hustling culture is not only unhealthy but also harmful in every way.
Let’s begin to normalise taking a break!
When you are anxious or fatigued, taking a short break can assist. It merely improves your capacity to focus.
Maintain a gratitude notebook
Feeling appreciative is a positive step toward a better mood and a better existence. Take note of the tiny things in life and write them down.
List three things you are grateful for in your life every day when you get up.
When you practise thankfulness in this way, you teach your mind to find delight in everything else.
Speak with your best friend
Nothing beats talking with your best friend.
It’s like covering yourself in a warm and comfortable blanket.
Because social support is closely related to human happiness. So, pick up your phone, text or call your best friend, and spend some time laughing your butt off!
Spending time with loved ones or joining a social group can help to lift your mood and give you a sense of belonging.
Allow the sunlight to enter
Get up and leave the blinds open if you’re sulking in the dark.
Bright sunlight is an instant mood lifter, especially when you are drowning in self-pity and fears.
Remove yourself from the grid
Another distraction is social media. You can unplug your devices for a day and not let social media consume you.
Predictably, social media has the ability to exhaust you and leave you feeling drained and heavy without your knowledge.
So getting away from the toxins can actually charge you and keep you from wasting time mindlessly scrolling.
Do something nice for someone else
Volunteer to do something nice for someone since making someone else happy automatically makes you look better.
Step outside of your comfort zone and provide a helping hand to someone – a family member, a friend, or even a stranger.
It assists you in developing compassion, discovering your joy, and feeling lighter.
Cook a nutritious meal
Cooking and eating a healthy meal will brighten your day if you are a foodie.
While cooking, you can turn up the music and dance about the kitchen.
You could also make your favourite dessert. All three can undoubtedly boost your low-energy day.
Reread a book you previously devoured
Pick up the book you loved when you first read it and relive your emotions.
It could also be a book that has inspired or motivated you, particularly if you are feeling unmotivated.
It will ground you as well as distract your mind from anything else.
Wrap-Up
This is an extract from my list of feel-good activities. I’m sure you predicted a couple of them because they’re frequently recommended by friends and therapists alike.
Aside from the ones listed above, you may try tending to your plants, decluttering and organising your environment, taking a long bath, spending time with your family, chatting with a kid, or playing with an animal.
All of these, without a doubt, make your body and mind feel amazing. They may appear little, but they do the job and help you get some energy flowing!
Keep in mind that nothing should come at the expense of your mental health.
Eliminate everything that is draining your mental health, whether it is someone in your life, a job that you are concerned about, or an embarrassing occurrence from years ago.
Of course, when it comes to people, I don’t mean it literally. It’s all about cutting off what bothers you.
This will eventually provide you with relief and distance from toxicity and negativity.
We have no room for them.
If you’re having trouble with your mental health, speaking with a mental health expert, such as a therapist, can be beneficial. They can offer you support and advice to help you feel better.
Remember to be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time. If you request help, don’t be hesitant to ask for it.