We can all be susceptible to feeling down from time to time. Sometimes this gloomy state can last a little longer then we’d like. Through personal experience of getting stuck in depressive patterns, I’ve come up with a list of things I can do to pull myself back up to my normal motivated and cheerful self.
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1. Re-organizing my closet
This allows me to concentrate on a slow, controlled task which has instant gratification. As I fold and put away things it also reminds me of how grateful I am to have such nice possessions. Being thankful and having gratitude starts to lift me out of sad and in to happy.
2. Making a cup of green tea
I’m not a tea/coffee drinker but making a cup green tea makes me feel like I’m pampering myself. Pampering myself forces me to be kind to myself and have kind thoughts towards myself.
3. Trying on sexy clothes
I like no, love shopping. If I can, I’ll go in to a store I like and try on sexy things. It lifts my mood.
4. Slowing down my whole day
When I know I’m low, its going to get hard to accomplish things at my usual pace and quality. I push half my to do list for a better day so i can focus on the 2-3 important tasks. Slowing down helps me feel less helpless. I usually have too much on my plate anyway.
5. Calling a good friend
When I’m down I don’t feel like talking to anybody. I’d like to crawl in to the privacy of my bed and stay there until I’m myself again. Speaking to or listening to a trusted friend forces me to turn thoughts away from myself and my mood without pressure or formality.
6. Napping
If I can, I’ll take a nap. When I wake up I’m almost always in a better mood even if its just slightly better its enough to help me push myself out of the misery.
7. Making sure I eat well
When I get down so does my appetite. But I have a tendency to get hangry (anger caused by hunger) and I’m borderline hypoglycemic. If I want to get out of my funk, I’ve got to be well fed.
8. Watching funny vine compilations or funny videos on YouTube
I love to laugh. Watching people do silly things may just make me laugh so loud that I scare away my depressed mood.
9. Writing down what is bothering me or what I think is making me feel low
Usually I don’t understand why I’m having a low day but as I write it usually becomes clear to me. Sometimes I have to start with a prompt like “I feel down when…”
10. Painting my nails or coloring in my adult coloring book
This is so silly but adding color to my nails lifts my mood. Painting my nails or coloring also slows my thoughts down and forces me to concentrate on the present moment.
