Feel better now

During last week’s R U Ok? Day, we were encouraged to stop and ask ourselves and those in our lives, how everyone was travelling.  With lockdowns and COVID-19 restrictions, this becomes even more important.

By providing a friendly ear, we can help those close to us know that we care and provide an opportunity for them to share their thoughts and burdens.

Equally, the challenges of COVID-19 make it important for us to take time out to reset our own mood and stress levels.

With so many of life’s joys seemingly restricted, it can be easy to forget that there are many little things we can do each day to boost our happiness and remind us that things are ok.

Here somethings you can do to feel better right now.

Take a break

Sometimes just walking away from something for a few minutes can help when you’re feeling stressed, burned out or exhausted.  Step away from what you are working on and give yourself some time to think about something else.

Go for a walk

Getting out and moving for a little more than 20 minutes a day is not only good for your physical health and longevity, it's also a great way to feel better in the here and now.

Physical activity is linked to reduced depression and improved mood, so a quick walk around the neighbourhood can help you feel better right away, even more so if you can enjoy greenspace or a nature trail.

Crank up the music

Listening to music can be fun and lift your mood.  So if you're feeling down, break out your favourite playlist of catchy, upbeat music for a quick mood boost.

Do something nice for someone else

Helping others can also be a great way to feel better, right now.

Whether it's helping a neighbour, a friend or the community, doing good for others can leave you with positive emotions that researchers dub a "warm glow".

If you are looking to get some quick warm fuzzies, you could:

• Cook a meal for a friend or neighbour, or arrange a delivery service for them
• Pick up rubbish you would normally walk past on the street
• Make a donation to fundraiser or charity
• Drop a card in a friend or neighbour’s letterbox on your walk

Talk to a Friend

When you are feeling stuck in a negative mindset, sometimes just spending a few minutes chatting or texting with a good friend is enough to put you in a better state of mind.  Social support is a key factor in emotional wellbeing.

When you want to feel better fast, reach out to a close friend or loved one who can listen, offer advice, or just share some laughs.

Some other simple ways to feel better fast include:

• Bake cookies
• Dance
• Do yoga
• Eat a healthy, delicious meal
• Make a playlist of your favourite songs
• Meditate
• Play with your dog
• Practice a hobby
• Read a book
• Take a relaxing hot bath
• Watch a funny online video
• Watch your favourite movie or tv show
• Write in a gratitude journal

Connect Health & Community offers a range of services to support our community through the challenges of lockdown, including social support groups, counselling and gamblers help support.

For more information, call us today on 03) 9575 5333 or visit www.connecthealth.org.au

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-make-yourself-feel-better-right-now-5093352