Hello everyone! <3
I figured this is a topic that just about everyone can relate to, so what better for a mid-week post than suggestions for how to brighten your mood when you’re feeling low?
Even when you try to live moment to moment, you still sometimes need to pull yourself out of a sad or difficult one from time to time. It doesn’t hurt to have a little toolbox of tricks to refer to to get yourself back on the right track and feeling positive again. After all, you can’t draw in great things if you, yourself aren’t emitting positivity. 🙂
These are the tricks that work for me, and I think they could work for you too 😉
For me, there is a strong component of mental reasoning that needs to take place to come out of a bad mood. Distractions are great, but they are not a long term fix, and definitely don’t address the root issue. So my 5 tips include a mix of mental, emotional, and physical methods of bringing yourself back to a happy state of mind.
1. Breathe
The importance of healthy, deep breathing cannot be overstated. It may sound super cliche to say “just take a deep breath”, but when you really understand what’s happening biologically inside when your body receives full, fresh oxygen, you’ll never breathe the same again.
I wrote an entire post about the benefits of breathing based on an amazing little book I read by Pam Grout (highly recommended). For more on the nitty-gritty of all things breathing- read my full post from the link above 😉
But for now, as far as mood-lifting benefits of breathing go, taking some big deep breaths and filling your lungs with fresh oxygen can:
-instantly reduce stress– breathing instantly tells your body “it’s ok” and to relax. When you are anxious, sad, or angry, you’re body is already reacting and probably getting all worked up, so first things first, “it’s ok.”
-increase self-esteem– better breathing pumps more endorphins into your system- lifting you up right away.
-increase mental clarity– “The brain is oxygen’s best customer.” In her book, Grout points out that the brain alone consumes 20% of the body’s oxygen. Full breathing helps with concentration and problem solving. And sometimes extra problem solving energy is needed to get out of a bad mood.
2. Bring yourself back to the present
More often than not, the reason why we feel upset in the present moment is because we are worrying about something that has already happened, or something that has yet to happen. Worrying/being upset about either of these things is complete wasted energy, as neither of them are now, and we are always striving to be in the now. A simple conscious reminder to yourself to come back to this moment can be enough to lift yourself out of a bad mood.
If the thing that’s bothering you is something happening right this second, rather than the past or future, you can take solace in the fact that it will pass too, just like any other moment. And soon you will be in your next moment, which is yours to do with what you wish. 🙂
Centering yourself right now in this present second will bring instant peace. Once you get into the practice of bringing yourself back to the moment when you feel you have slipped away (one great way to do this is by focusing on your breath for several deep breaths), you will start to feel your day-to-day “mood”, or entire demeanor, change. You will be calmer, happier, more relaxed, and more able to extract the beauty from life, not just the challenges.
3. Say some affirmations
Maybe the easiest and certainly one of the most effective of all of these tools: saying some affirmations to start drawing in what you want. For a more detailed explanation of affirmations and why they work, see my previous post on this topic.
An affirmation is a short, powerful statement, written as a declaration of something that is already true. For example, “I am a success in everything I do” or “I feel happy and healthy.” You can say them out loud, in your head, or write them down. Just get those positive statements out there, so the universe can bring them to you!
Note—>The important thing about making affirmations is to phrase them as something that you already have obtained or is already true. It is less effective to say “I want more money in my life” and more effective to say “I am making so much money.” The attitude of already having what you desire, increases the statement’s power.
Affirmations can instantly start to turn things around. When I’m really feeling in a difficult space, I just shoot them out one after the other for everything and anything I want. “I am feeling centered and positive.” “I am in a great place at work/financially/in my relationship.” Whatever it may be- there are no limitations on what or how much you can ask for. It costs nothing and the universe is always listening- whether you are spewing negative thoughts or positive ones.
4. Do something physical, even just a walk
You don’t have to take an extreme bootcamp class to reap the mood-changing benefits of working out. (Though, if that’s your thing, power to you! 🙂 ) A simple walk outside or a couple yoga stretches at home or in the park, will get some fresh oxygen in your body, and get some positive energy flowing again.
suited up in my flower pants 😎
Working out can also be a nice distraction to immediately get your mind off something stressful, while also maybe blowing off some stream, but it definitely feels great to get moving and breathing when you’re feeling down. You almost have no choice but to perk up.
5. Treat yourself to something lovely
My go-to is a cappuccino 🙂
Let’s not underestimate the power of a good sweet or a new pair of shoes. (It’s called retail therapy for a reason 😉 ). I don’t mean self-soothe via crying hysterically and demolishing a carton of ice cream. I do, however, think it’s really nice to give yourself something nice- whatever that means to you. Especially if you’ve gone through some of the “work” above to pass through your difficult moment, you deserve something nice. 🙂
I hope that this post was helpful to you guys, please let me know what you think in the comments below. A presto <3
Love,
Amanda
I love this post! 🌻
Author
Aw thank you!! <3
Great post! I totally agree with you. Thank you for visiting my blog, i’m a new follower to yours, i’m really looking forward to future posts..;) Shaunz
Author
Thank you so much for the support lovely! ❤️😊
My pleasure..😘
A great reminder, I often find myself doing these things to center myself as well! Xox
Author
Thank you 😊 Yeah sometimes it’s just nice to be reminded of things we already know 😊
Thanks, Amanda. Those all are points we all need to keep in mind. (Big breath!)
Doug
Amanda, those flower pants. Wow!
Author
Hahaha they are a favorite.
I can see why! I used to have Hawaiian shorts at one time. Gosh did I love them! But they clearly aren’t as fetching as your pants haha!
Author
Haha I’m sure you pulled them off well. 😊
Well I’d be lying if it attracted the ladies but it’s their loss. They were damn sexy 😜
I loved this post so much. The second tip, “Bring yourself back to the present”, is one I struggle with, but it was awesome to be reminded of it. Thank you <3
Author
That’s so nice to hear. I also remind myself of these things so I totally understand. Thank you for the support ❤️
Amazing! THANK YOU, I really needed this now.
Author
Oh I’m so happy to hear that. Thank you for the read ❤️
Very interesting read, you seem to have put a lot of thought into this. I’ll confess I’m going through a not-so-brilliant (read; absolutely awful) time right now and I guess I’ll have to put these tips to use. Thanks so much for sharing xxx
Author
Thank you, all I can do is share what I know works for me 🙂 I’m sorry to hear you’re going through a tough time. I don’t know if you clicked through to this other post //bellezzacorner.com/2016/08/15/soul-food-6-a-bad-day-vs-a-bad-moment/ but it’s kind of the crux of how I get through tough days. Just trying to remain present, and all is well. <3
Thank you. I just took a look at that post and it’s really, really good. Great perspective to have.
Author
Thank you, it really helps me keep my balance. 😊
Love this post! Very helpful since I tend hold on to the bad moments way too often….
Author
Thank you! <3 I understand, I used to as well. I just made it a habit to flip it around asap 🙂
I love this post and definitely needed it! Thanks ❤️
http://www.justine-renee.com
Author
Aw thank you lovely 😊
The message about living in the moment is so true! I always try to remind myself about this when I start stressing about school.
Author
Yeah and just staying big picture about everything helps. I used to stress to the max in school and you just have to step back from it with a different perspective.
Very lovely post! And I just read it in the perfect moment. ☺️
Author
Thank you <3 🙂 Happy to have helped, even just a little 😉
I always find my mind in the past or future so i like to bring it back to the present too, that way it reduces worrying. Physical activity i enjoy too, gives yourself some personal time. Great post x
Author
Totally agree 😊 Thank you!
What an amazing and encouraging post. I really enjoyed reading it. (:
Author
Thank you so much!! ❤️
Reblogged this on scarlet makeovers.
Author
Thank you!! 😊
You’re welcome.. Followed your blog already and its great!!
Author
Aw thank you! 😊
This makes a lot of sense and is very much relatable. Thanks for this!
Author
I’m glad you like it 😊 Thank you ❤️
Great advice!! Love these kind of posts theyre very refreshing 🙂
Author
Thank you!! 🙂
Beautiful post, I have a similar one on my blog on 5 Feel good tips 😃
http://www.chocolateandconfident.wordpress.com
Author
Thank you so much ❤️ I love your blog too!! 😊
Really well written and an interesting read. Very impressive
Author
Thank you, I really appreciate it <3
Great post! I nominated you for the 3 quotes in 3 days challenge. If you have any questions, let me know!
Author
Thank you lovely 🙂
All excellent tips for mental wellness. Present moment awareness is so key, and affirmations also are wonderful. The more we spread the word, the better! 👍
Author
Completely agree 🙂 Once you’re made aware of the tools, you can’t go backwards 🙂
Hey gurl! Thanks for liking my post, I really appreciate it!💜 I actually really needed to read this particular post, Im currently sat in front of so much work and I can feel the pressure but after a few deep breaths and some positive thinking, I know that I can only try my best and God is control. God bless, lots of love xx
Author
aw thank you so much, that’s so kind. 🙂 Lots of love to you as well <3
Love this! All of your points are so true.
Author
Thank you so much! 😊
A very helpful post. Thank you!
Author
Thank you 😊
I love this!!
Author
Thank you! <3 🙂
AND thank you so much for showing my page some love, I’m extremely new to blogging so any tips would be so so helpful.
Author
I think you’re blog looks awesome! Love the theme and layout 🙂 If you’re looking to create a logo, I have a friend who does a great job for a decent price! Check out my post for her contact info: //bellezzacorner.com/2016/08/06/welcome-to-the-new-bellezza-corner/
I love this post especially #2 🙂
Author
aw thank you! <3
Bring yourself back to the present is something I’ve never thought about before!
Author
It’s really the key to maintaining and always coming back to a peaceful state 🙂
It’s probably one of the most useful things I’ve read in a very long time (esp at a time I am going through redundancy, trying to set up on my own, looking after three children. Very very helpful! x
Author
I’m so happy to hear that 🙂 If you can master it, it will change everything for you <3
GREAT ARTICLE
Author
Thank you! 😊
Have you read my mind? I have my ups and downs lately and my sadness brought about major anxiety problems. I’ve had a hard time catching my breath. It scared me so much that I cried a lot. A friend helped me with doing your deep breathing technique and after a little bit I was calmer, drier and started to feel better. All your techniques are fabulous and I have started using them in small ways to calm myself, and forgive myself of my past mistakes. Every day is a learning process. Thank you for such a wonderful reminder to continue doing them and more to regain my better me. You are very eloquent in your article and I thank you so much 😊Have a beautiful Sunday!!!
Author
This is so sweet, I am so happy to have helped you in any way. It’s never an accident when we stumble upon posts or quotes that resonate with us- even if they just serve as a reminder. 🙂 <3
Great post ! So happy I came across this post, really needed some inspiration and mood lifting 👍
Author
Thank you! I’m so happy to have helped in any little way 😊
Great post! I have been working on being in the now too
Author
Thank you! I really think it’s the key to everything ❤️
Love this! A nice cup of coffee and some fresh air are often just what I need!
Author
Those little things are very underrated 🙂
Reblogged this on GORILLA GODDEZZ.
Author
Thank you! 😊
1. I always breathe in and out very slowly, 1 or 2 times already gives a bit more energy
2. This is hard for me since I do a job that annoys me to the bones. Everything irritates me, even the most simple things. Luckily I found a way out and I recently registered for the photo academy 🙂 so that’s a good thing to look forward to for me.
3. The only thing I always say “I can do this” this already gives me a little boost until the next order comes in loool.
4.I always cycle or walk to work which is more then enough for me in this cold weather brrr. Cycling is 15 minutes and walking is 45 minutes, so double this for a whole day that’s quite alright I think.
5. I always treat myself to chocolate xD hahaha
Nice post, cheers ^^
Author
this is awesome!! Thank you so much for sharing your feel-good habits 🙂 It sounds like you really have a good handle on finding ways to keep positive and not let bad moods linger. <3
you’re welcome! I try my best because I know sulking won’t solve a thing and you’ll only get more depressed that way, it’s hard sometimes and I know because I literally don’t like my job and it’s hard to get through the day, also the weather plays a huge role in how I feel (I think the biggest role for me), the weather here isn’t exactly sunny throughout the year and it mostly rains and it’s just flippin’ cold which doesn’t really help me either but I found a way for that although it costs money haha.
Author
It’s hard when something like your job that’s in your daily life brings you down. But you’ll only get to better places with an attitude like the one you have.
simply wonderful
Author
Thank you 😊
Great suggestions that works
Author
Thank you! 😊
🙂
What a “happy feeling” blog! Nice and inviting! I try to do your 5 tips at least once through out the week.
Author
Thank you! That’s what I was going for! I’m happy to hear my blog is received as a happy place 😊
Loved it! Sooo necessary this post, such a help! TY xo
Author
Thank you! 😊 I’m so happy to hear you got something out of it! ❤️
Yes 😊
I’m a new follower to you and I really enjoyed to read this ❤️ Great reminders! I look forward to read new post f you, excellent blog!
Author
Thank you so much and welcome! ❤️
I like number 2. Living in the moment. Funny it’s the only time we really have, yet we so rarely live there. We allow the past and the future always steal it away from us.
Author
So true. But the good thing is that we can train ourselves to readjust to being there and then it becomes habit 😊
You have visited my blog many times and now I finally get to see yours! Very nice! I especially liked 5 ways to lift your mood! Keep up the good work! and thanks for reading SCW.
Author
Thank you so much! 🙂