We've all had that bad day or week, or maybe even life. Whether it's because of mental health or all the actions that are taking place, nothing seems to get better...especially if you're in a slump. Luckily there are some things that you can do to make your terrible day a little more bearable. They won't fix whatever may be going on in your life, but they will help you make it through a little longer, which is all you really can hope for. Here are 10 ways to breathe a little easier and find a piece of sanity in the midst of a terrible day:
1. Drink ice cold water.
Not is only water refreshing for your taste buds, it's refreshing for your mind too. Water can work wonders for your mental and physical health. Drinking just one glass of water can rehydrate you and increase your energy.
You'll be thinking more clearly and hopefully feel like a brand new person. Also, sometimes we forget to hydrate even on our good days because we're so caught up in something else. Part of the reason why you could feel so crappy could be because you haven't drank anything in a while. Taking that minute to drink a cool cup of water can immediately change how you feel.
2. Take a hot/cold shower.
Depending on the weather or what type of person you are, you may like a steaming hot shower or ice cold shower. Which ever it is, take a looonnnngggg one. Put on some relaxing music, light some candles, and take your time.
Wash your hair, body, and face until you feel like you're brand new. Your muscles will be relaxed and you feel less dirty which can be a nice feeling. Even though it can't last forever, it's a distraction that cannot only make you smell better, but feel like a million bucks.
3. Change into something comfy.
Yeah we all LOVE looking cute, but sometimes looking cute means not feeling great. A big step to changing your mood or day can be as simple as getting into something that will make you feel free or good. Whether it's sweats or pajamas, slip into something cozy that will make you say "Ahhhh..."
If you have cold or wet shoes/socks, put on a fresh pair (preferably out of the dryer) and watch how much better you will feel. If you wear a bra, take that bad boy off and be completely free from straps. It's a game changer for not only bad days, but ANY day of the week.
4. Do a face mask.
This sounds funny, especially if you aren't someone who really supports or knows what a face mask is, but it is a great, cheap tool. Face masks can be found at your local drug store or you can buy them online. There are all kinds for all different needs/wants, but no matter what type of face mask you have, it will work.
Not only is the feeling great after you do a face mask, it's a chance to laugh at yourself while you're covered in a green or black clay. Or a chance to take care of yourself. Then after your skin will feel like a baby's butt, and your skin will be glowing, which helps you glow a little more (TIP: do a face mask after you shower because your pores will be reopened, and therefore it can be more effective for your skin).
5. Make, order, or buy your favorite meal/snack.
If you're having a bad day you deserve a little treat, so spoil yourself. Ignore the calorie or carbohydrate count and eat something you WANT to eat. Fill yourself up and don't regret it one bit.
If you aren't feeling hungry then save it for later or force yourself to eat something. You need to eat because hunger can affect mood immensely. Being hangry is a real thing and eating something can make that crankiness turn right upside down in minutes. Even if you don't realize it, you can be upset due to a lack of food in your life.
6. Spend a little time doing a favorite activity.
Everyone has something they love doing: online shopping, watching Netflix, writing/reading, etc., and that can be an essential key to making your terrible day a little better. Even if you're stressed and feel like you have no time for a break, take a break.
Do something that usually makes you happy or that you just enjoy doing. Maybe it will cheer you up or maybe it won't, but at least you tried no matter what. Plus it's never a bad idea to take a break from the world and do something for yourself. Find a little peace in all the craziness and try to focus on it.
7. Get some sleep.
Not all of us sleep a healthy 8-10 hours of sleep every night, and that in itself is not good. But a lack of sleep can effect mood and cause emotions to arise. That being said, take a little snooze or go to bed earlier than usual.
Sleep is a time to escape the world and relax. If you can't fall asleep, try some mediation techniques or listening to some relaxing sounds/music. You may not feel completely better when you wake up, but your mind and body will thank you for the rest. You'll be recharged for whatever comes next.
8. Talk it out.
Bottling up your feelings or thoughts will never work out for the better. You are a human being and communicating your frustration can feel like a weight off your chest. So whatever may be happening, just talk about it.
Even if you can't talk to an actual human being, talk to your pet, God, an object, or write it out. Find an outlet to talk about it. You'll recognize how you feel and it won't be trapped inside.
These things won't change your bad day or make it necessarily better, but it is a way to breathe and find some relaxation in the midst of your life. It's important to take care of yourself and find time to do so. Remember that time will help and that tomorrow is a brand new day. One step at a time.
