Do you ever have one of those days where you just aren't in the mood? You don't feel like cleaning, going to work, working out, making dinner or doing any of the tasks you set out to do/have to do. You just feel sort of "blah"?
You are not alone - we all have those days.
But here's the thing that maybe you haven't been told before:
You have the power to change your mood.
I know what you're thinking: "Come on, you just don't get it - I have XYZ going on, my back hurts, I'm sleepy and grumpy and I just don't believe you."
But you can, just here me out.
Mood follows action.
Read that again.
Your mood follows your action. It's the plain and simple truth. Our human body is a beautiful, interconnected machine that responds to the inputs we feed it. I'm not suggesting you gloss over your feelings and attempt to mask them (that is never healthy), but what I am suggesting is to change up your inputs if your mood is feeling a bit down.
The quickest way to change your state is through action.
Here are three things I do anytime I'm feeling "blah"
Go for a walk or do a workout if you feel up to it - just moving your body is key. And you don't need to do an hour long workout or walk either - just 20 minutes is all you need. “A steady-state activity such as walking gently boosts circulation, which in turn increases the levels of adrenalin and endorphins in your system,” Walking helps move your lymphatic system - this system also helps move toxins out of your body.
Get outside - literally AND figuratively. Literally: Humans aren't meant to be inside all day. Get out in nature, walk around barefoot and reap the benefits of "earthing," the concept of absorbing the negative ions from the earth to help balance your body. I know it sounds a bit woo-woo, but there is data behind the claim. Researchers at the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow discovered that negative ions are able to help protect the body from induced physical stress. Figuratively: When we are feeling down, it's often because we need to get out of our own head. We are likely too focused on our own self and our problems. Quick way out? Do something nice for someone else. It doesn't need to be complicated - a genuine compliment or holding the door open for another human are surefire ways to boost your mood.
Listen to music! Music has a way of transporting us and changing our mood instantly. Find your favorite song and turn it up loud. Dance a little jig if you want.
Want to triple your chances of success?!
Do all three of these at the same time! A nice 20-minute walk, outside, listening to your favorite songs. I promise if you do this you will feel better - even if it's just 1%, that's better than before!
Let me know if you try any of these tips and if they work for you. If you have any other tips you'd like to share, please leave a comment below so we can all learn from one another!
P.S. this was originally included in my weekly newsletter on 16th December.
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With a little sweat and a lot of love,
Madalyn