Life has its ups and downs, and we all experience moments when we feel down or lacking motivation. However, it’s important to remember that we have the power to uplift ourselves and turn our moods around. While it may not always be easy, there are numerous strategies and techniques that can help us rekindle our inner spark and bring back a positive outlook. In this blog post, we will explore seven effective ways to chair yourself up when you’re feeling down.
- Practice self-compassion: When you’re feeling down, it’s essential to treat yourself with kindness and understanding. Acknowledge your emotions without judgment and remind yourself that it’s okay to feel down sometimes. Practice self-compassion by engaging in activities that make you feel good, such as taking a walk in nature, indulging in a hobby, or pampering yourself. Be gentle with yourself and allow time for healing and self-reflection.
- Surround yourself with positivity: The environment we surround ourselves with greatly impacts our mood. Seek out positive influences and spend time with supportive friends and family members who uplift and inspire you. Engage in activities that bring you joy, such as listening to uplifting music, watching a funny movie, or reading an inspiring book. Fill your surroundings with positive affirmations and motivational quotes that remind you of your worth and potential.
- Engage in physical activity: Physical activity has been proven to release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. When you’re feeling down, go for a run, practice yoga, or take a dance class. Engaging in regular exercise not only boosts your mood but also enhances your overall well-being. Find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your routine to uplift your spirits on a regular basis.
- Practice gratitude: Gratitude has a transformative power when it comes to shifting our focus from what’s going wrong to what’s going right. Take a few moments each morning to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Write them down in a gratitude journal or simply take mental note of them. This practice will help you develop a positive perspective and appreciate the little joys in life, ultimately uplifting your mood.
- Set small achievable goals: When you’re feeling down, setting small, achievable goals can provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Break down your larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate each milestone you reach. By doing so, you’ll build momentum, boost your confidence, and gradually lift your spirits. Remember to be realistic with your goals and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
- Help others: Sometimes, the best way to uplift ourselves is by uplifting others. Engage in acts of kindness and volunteer your time to help those in need. Whether it’s offering a listening ear to a friend, volunteering at a local charity, or simply performing random acts of kindness, helping others can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose. The act of giving not only benefits those you assist but also brings immense joy and satisfaction to your own life.
- Write your thoughts down in a Journal – remember your thoughts are not always factual but they do affect your feelings, so challenge your thoughts and create more helpful or balanced ones.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out for support when you’re feeling down. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist who can provide guidance and a listening ear. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with someone you trust can help lighten the load and offer valuable perspective. Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and you don’t have to face challenges alone.
Feeling down is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to define our entire experience. By practicing self-compassion, surrounding ourselves with positivity, engaging in physical activity, practicing gratitude, setting achievable goals, helping others, and seeking support.
If you’d like to book a coaching or counselling session with me either to meet on Zoom or in person in Newcastle, contact me.