The School of Sass It’s 9 months into the pandemic and with winter here you are not the only one who is perhaps not feeling your normal self. You shouldn’t dismiss your feelings but it is important not to get caught up in your negative emotions. Below are some tips to bring back those positive vibes in your life.
Be Grateful
Showing gratitude is a great way to perk you up. There are so many scientific studies that have shown how showing gratitude can help with anxiety.
Write down 10 things you are grateful for in your life, right now. It can be anything from having access to the Internet, which allows you to still stay connected, to being able to shower. When you notice yourself thinking negative go and re-read your list and add to it! This will get you out of your rut.
Start a hobby
Is there something you have wanted to do but never had the chance? Well, with all the time we are spending at home now is the perfect time to try new things.
The good thing about this is it will give you something new to look forward to and distract you from the world situation! It can be anything from abstract art to learning how to knit to learning a new beauty skill such as threading or maybe you fancy growing some plants in your home! There are so many youtube tutorials out there. Here are some tips to get you started.
Read
Reading is a great way to improve your memory, boost your mood, expand your vocab, reduce stress and stimulate your mind! Next time you feel like binging a show on a streaming platform opt for one less episode and pick up a book instead! It will make you feel much better.
Personally I love reading non-fiction and have recently read/ am reading the below:
- Girls Who Run the World: 31 CEOs Who Mean Business by Diana Kapp
- Hit Refresh: The Quest to rediscover Microsoft’s Soul and Imagine a Better Future for Everyone by Satya Nadella
- No Filter: the Inside Story of Instagram by Sarah Frier
- The Magic by Rhonda Byrne
Fresh Air & Meditation
If you are able to then try and go for a daily walk. If you are working from home, then add a reminder to your diary to go out for a walk at lunchtime, perhaps, to break up your day! This will stop you working non-stop and will keep your mind fresh.
There is a Japanese practice, called shinrin-yoku, about how trees can promote health and happiness, and personally I find going outdoors (even in the cold – wrap up extra warm) helps me tremendously. It is the practice of being calm and observing nature around you while breathing. If you are a fan of meditation then this one is for you!
If you don’t meditate and want to try it I recommend you try Insight Timer or Headspace (or maybe even try them both!).
Before you go back to your day remember things will get better. Hold on to hope, sass!
