When you’re trying to tame breakfast place. Maybe take a walk in the woods if being in nature brings you peace.
Find Purpose
It might seem lofty, or maybe like a luxury for people who have plenty of time. But when your life lacks purpose, you might feel lost and like you don’t have direction. And studies show that when you feel a strong sense of purpose, you tend to be more skilled at working through life’s challenges.
For some, this comes from their spirituality. For others, it’s in their work. If you don’t know where to start, notice when you have a feeling of flow in your day, where you’re just lost in something and time slips away. Write down when that happens. In time, your notes will be like little crumbs that guide you on your way.
Simplify Your Life
If your life feels jam-packed with work and home chores, it can be hard to remember you even have an inner self.
See if you can slow it down. Cut out what you can, especially when you’re feeling low. Sometimes, you just need to tell yourself that it’s OK to do less.
Give Thanks
It might sound corny, but it works. When you focus on things you’re grateful for, it lifts you up. It shifts your thoughts and helps you focus on the positive.
You might try a gratitude journal, where you write down something you’re grateful for each day. You can also make a habit of writing thank-you notes. Or actually counting your blessings each night.
Call a Timeout
When you play sports, you take timeouts for good reason. Sometimes, you need a break to get a better handle on things.
So when you feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to call one for yourself and do something relaxing. Even better, set up specific times during the day to consciously try to relax, and stick to that routine.
It can be as simple as taking a hot bath or listening to soothing music. Or you can try:
- Meditation or guided imagery. Try to clear your mind by focusing on one thought or word or phrase, or imagining yourself in a peaceful place, like on the beach or in the woods.
- Yoga. Some types are more physically demanding than others. Try a class or a video at home.
- Breathing exercises. Clear your mind and focus on your . Slowly inhale through your nose, holding your breath for only a few seconds, and then slowly exhale through your nose or mouth. Repeat for 20 minutes.
- . A therapist teaches you to control certain automatic physical functions, like your heart rate, your blood pressure, or the temperature of your . Then, when you’re in a stressful situation, you can use the techniques to help stay calm.
- Massage or hypnosis. Ask around for a recommendation. The training requirements for massage therapists and hypnotists vary widely from state to state.
Relaxing doesn’t mean you’re “doing nothing” or being lazy. Think of it as a necessity, like eating or sleeping, that helps keep you well.