5 Quick Tips to Feel Better When Stressed

Life can get quite eventful sometimes (correction: most times), and it's normal and human to be in a bad mood some days. In my opinion, the little things and my pet peeves are all it takes to ruin my day...BUT, below are some quick tips that usually help lighten my mood and shift myself into a positive mindset.

Positivity attracts positive things!

1. Playing Your Favorite Music

This is a tried and true method. I always have a playlist ready with all my UPDATED AND CURRENT favorite songs. The reason I stress UPDATED AND CURRENT is because, over time, some songs can get annoying when overplayed, and when we are already in a bad mood, those repetitive songs aren't what we need in that moment.

2. Taking 3-5 Deep Breaths

When your mind has too many thoughts running through it, causing me stress and negativity, the quickest and easiest thing to do is to A) pause and B) take a few deep breaths. Inhale, hold, exhale. Repeat this cycle for as long as you need to, and when you're ready, slide back into what you left off on, and continue with a clearer, more focused mind.

3. Close Your Eyes and Envision Your Goal

As simple as it sounds, it's truly very effective. When life gets too stressful, take a few seconds or minutes to close your eyes and envision what you are working towards. As you think, remind yourself that all the effort you are putting into your work NOW will help you achieve your ultimate goal in the FUTURE. However, you need to actually work to achieve. Let me repeat that, "Work To Achieve." Good things come to those who wait.

4. See You Later, Social Media

Social media often has negative effects on our mental health. It not only distracts us from our work (causing us to scroll for HOURS), but it also puts negative thoughts into our heads, whether it is from reading the news or comparing yourself to others. This adds unnecessary stress into us. So, the solution? Close that app you were scrolling on. Instead, you could read a book, take a walk, refill your water, etc. As long as you are taking a step back to just feel only your presence, then you're doing yourself some good.

5. Get Creative

I am not saying to creating a Bob Ross masterpiece. All I'm saying is to do something that lets you DO something. This can be baking, drawing, sketching, playing an instrument, cooking, journaling, cleaning, etc... Try to do something that will help your mind to focus on an activity that YOU enjoy.

Of course, there are many other things that you could do to relieve stress and boost your mood, whether they take 30 seconds, 5 minutes, or even a few hours. Do what works for you! Life is about experimenting to see what you LOVE. You don't have to get anything perfect all at once. If taking breaks and discovering what you like to do during those breaks are what you need to focus on, then focus on that! No one can stop you. Take care!

- Mae