Sometimes life can be rough, and it can be hard to figure out how to juggle every single one of your tasks without your entire world crashing down on you. Thankfully, you have the power to change your outlook on any situation, because you are in control of your emotions and reactions. I understand that you may be in a situation where you roll your eyes and think, "easier said than done," but before you go, just give these five simple steps a try:
1. Breathe
Taking deep breaths has been known to calm the body and reduce stress and high blood pressure. Deep breaths also help to release endorphins throughout your body, which will make you happy.
Try it: Close your eyes. Exhale all your breath first. Next, breathe in through your nose slowly while you count to five. Pause for two seconds, then slowly exhale. Repeat five to ten times.
2. Smile
Even if you're mad and you want to kill all the things, forcing yourself to smile can be incredibly beneficial for your health and mental wellness. No one quite knows why yet, but facial expressions can influence emotions.
Try it: Just give a smile. Even if you're frowning or angry or depressed, smile. You may be surprised at the results.
3. Compliment yourself
You deserve it! Complimenting yourself - and actually meaning it - can be one of the best things to do when you're down or stressed. Whether you gawk over your rad sense of style or read some of your favorite self-written poems and short stories, do something to love on yourself.
Try it: Every time you say or think something negative about yourself, force yourself to think of three positive things. And don't tell me that you can't think of any because you are an amazing human being and I know you have some good traits.
4. Stretch
There is so much beauty in the art of a good stretch. When you're stressed and overwhelmed, one simple fix may be to get up and do a few stretches, and you don't have to be a yoga artist to do this. Stretching loosens tight muscles in your body, which can relax and increase blood flow. It also releases those lovely endorphins to help you feel happy. Stretching also has a ton of other health benefits.
Try it: Get out of your seat and do a few of those stretches that we all know and love! If you don't really know which ones I'm talking about or don't know how to do a good stretch, watch this.
5. Accept the things you cannot change
I know that this one is a little heavier than the other four, but it is important nonetheless. Often times we hold on to things that we shouldn't; things that are already in the past or things that we cannot change but want to. These negative emotions and feelings will continue bogging you down until you let go.
Try it: Whether it's a bad grade, that person that stood you up, or something much bigger than yourself, just let go. Visualize those emotions floating off your heart as you detach yourself once and for all.
Life is tough, but you are tougher.
Breathe, smile, compliment yourself, stretch, and let go. You'll feel a whole lot better, I guarantee it.
