With all of the recent tragedies going on lately, so many people are hurting. If you're anything like me, you'll want to try to help and console as many people as you can. However, though it is great to help others cope, we need to cope ourselves too. Here are the top ways I have found to cope using self-love. They will provide some relaxation and some calming and maybe even a distraction.
1. Rewatch your favorite movies.
Curl up on the couch with your softest, fluffiest blanket, maybe your pet or some stuffed animals, and watch your favorite movies again. Laugh with the characters. Cry with the characters. Become totally immersed in the movie like never before. Your favorite movie will bring you joy and it will be a fun distraction.
2. Give yourself a facial.
Pampering yourself in this way is a lot of fun! You can get little packets of facial stuff for like two dollars at the store. These are simple and easy and still really fun. There is also always the option to do the facial with a friend!
3. Spend more time on your makeup.
When we feel pretty, we feel better usually. So, take a little longer on your makeup one day. Take your time with it and make yourself feel better. Do full makeup: foundation, eye color, lip color, cheek color, etc.
4. Paint your nails.
This kind of goes along with the facial and makeup. It's a fun and relaxing thing to do, especially with friends!
5. Read a book.
Reread an old favorite or read a new one! Personally, I get so immersed in books that I forget the real world exists. It's one of my absolute favorite things to do to distract myself from things I'm not fully ready to deal with yet. It's not a fix, but it's a start!
6. Meditate.
Not everyone is good at meditation, but that's okay! You can look up steps and instructions and stuff online and even though it takes practice to become "good" at it, it's a great thing to do to clear your mind. If you're especially shaken up about the recent tragedies. It can help calm you and help you to relax and breathe.
7. Try Yoga.
I have recently fallen in love with yoga. It's a decent workout and it really makes you appreciate what your body is capable of. Plus, you'll be focusing on your breathing and the movements so fully you can step out of the "real world" for a bit and get back to worrying about the tragedies afterwards.
8. Go to the gym.
I know this seems a little redundant after the yoga one, but I'm serious. Go lift some weights to let out your frustration (Just make sure you do it safely!!!). Go run and let off some steam. As heartbreaking as these tragedies are, for many people they also lead to a lot of anger. This is a safer, less violent way to deal with it. I always feel better after I hit the gym.
I'm no counselor or anything, so none of these ideas are to stand alone. If you're horribly upset and struggling especially hard with dealing with the recent tragedies, I still suggest you seek out a counselor or something. These ideas are just ways to make sure you remember to take care of yourself during this time.
So everyone, please take care of yourself and your loved ones, and if you need help, please reach out for it.
