Now and then, things can get a bit much. It’s important to know that you’re not alone in how you’re feeling – everyone experiences it at least once, if not many times in their lifetime. It’s hard not to feel lost and defeated when things seem completely out of our control, but we have some methods you can put in place to curb and reduce those feelings. Here’s our go-to tips when feeling overwhelmed to get our minds and emotions back in check.
Exercise
If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to fix a funky mood, it’s exercise. There are lots of benefits of getting your workout on every day – stress relief, better memory, a greater sleep routine and improved mood and well-being being just a few. These days, there are so many options for at-home workouts: yoga, weightlifting or our personal favourite: YouTube tutorials! With everything under the sun on one platform and an exercise mat in-hand, we guarantee that there’s something for everyone. Fitness professionals are now streaming their classes through social media platforms: how cool? There’s no excuse not to break a sweat now!
Chat Things Through
Sometimes, we just need to get things off our chests – this is where friends and family come in. Pick up the phone, have a Skype/FaceTime call, even a heart-to-heart over a cup of tea with someone you live with – you won’t believe how much better you’ll feel once unburdened from your worries. Even if there’s no-one around, you can always get it out of your system by writing it down on a piece of paper. Top tip: shred it/scribble over it once you’re done – you’ll be surprised at how liberating it feels!
Take 5
It’s as simple as that, five minutes can make all the difference. Take a quick walk, grab a glass of cool water, even just close your eyes and breathe deeply. Meditate. Pop on your favourite playlist or podcast and just be for a moment. Read a chapter of your current book, or a go-to giggle-worthy series on Netflix. As we mentioned above, a quick workout is one of the best ways to help you blow off some steam and clear your mind, but it’s important to focus on whatever helps YOU relax. Whatever you were doing beforehand can wait a few minutes – you and your mental health are far more important.
A few additional tips:
- Break down looming tasks into smaller ones with simple steps.
- De-clutter: your bedroom, your wardrobe, the kitchen cupboards – anything!
- Avoid sugar and caffeine – these can make anxious feelings worse!
- Centre your mind with the 3-3-3 rule.
- Take a quick afternoon nap or get an early night in.
- Practice mindfulness through yoga or meditation.
- Stop pushing yourself so hard – give yourself a break.
Don’t forget you are not alone and there are always people around to help that may be feeling the exact same!
Take care,
Front Row x
