Once in a while you’ll find yourself stuck in a rut. Whether it’s the result of a breakup, a dispute or some stress at work there are always pick me ups available. Sometimes we have a habit of gravitating towards quick fixes such as: sweets, binge eating, alcohol or sometimes even doing things that are a bit risqué. But today I’m going to share with you a list I have comprised of pick me ups that I’ve adopted!
1) Eat healthy despite the strong urge for junk food. Undeniably, the pull for junk food will be by far more tempting. Actually, it’s a fact! These junk food brands have actually gone above and beyond to ensure their products are addictive. Not only that, we produce feel-good chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine when we consume carbohydrates, sugar and salty goods. I know I’ve succumbed to these temptations (many times). Cramped up in bed or on the couch bingeing on my favourite flavour of ice cream, following up with a salty bag of crisps and probably washing it all down with an alcoholic beverage (let’s be honest). Sounds great? Actually, according to studies, when we’re stressed or feeling down, our body actually requires a higher level of nutrition to fight back. So work on swapping the Choco bar for some fruit that contain natural sugars AND provide the same euphoria!
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2) Exercise! Often this can feel so wrong, yet so right. The wrong part is it’s very likely you’re feeling exhausted (mentally and physically) and going for a run or doing any form of exercise ranks last on your list of things you want to do. But I urge you try it! When we do exercise, we release a chemical called endorphins. Receptors in your brain that control your perceptions of ‘pain’ react to these chemicals and it becomes a natural pain killer! Endorphins also provides a sense of euphoria also known as a ‘runner’s high’. Great right? I know the struggle with getting up and going for a walk or a jog when you just want to snuggle in bed or watch a movie while pigging out but exercise is now what I crave when I’m feeling down on myself.
3) Wear some colour! Something as simple as a little bit of brightness in your outfit can make you feel a little more cheerful. It’s called ‘Colour Therapy’. Yup, it’s a real thing! Wearing a bright statement colour can not only cheer yourself up but others may even hitch a ride on your happy wagon! It’s a win-win situation!
4) Indulge in something you like doing. Whether it’s watching a movie, reading, cooking, drawing or some DI.Y. And if you’re thinking you have no time, I understand. But if there’s time to grub on a bag of crisps there’s time to do something you actually love!
5) Let yourself grieve. Depending on your scenario you may need to come to terms with what has happened. Don’t be afraid to cry and never feel guilty for feeling upset!
6) Lastly, speak to someone. I know sometimes it’s not so easy. Some of us open up a little easier and some of us struggle with letting other people know how we feel. But not only can we talk to close, trust worthy friends or family but we can also contact people such as a counsellor, a psychologist, a hotline or a therapist. There is an array of outlets and no one should ever feel alone. Loneliness isn’t just being with out people, it’s also not having a way or being able to express how you feel.
Today I’m sporting a colourful knitted scarf and filled up my ‘celebrate every love’ Starbucks mug with delicious ginger and lemon tea!
insanitynclarity 