Mood Boosters to Improve the Moment
Depletion. . .that feeling that you get when you realize you are run down, clogged up, trapped in, stressed out. You have given all you have, tried your best, and pushed though, and you are now on empty.
It happens to all of us.
Therapists are correct. You can’t give from an empty cup. You can’t withdraw from an empty emotional bank account. So what now?
You could claim your entitlement to be served, filled, or invested in. If you do that in an angry or demanding way, chances are your need will go unfulfilled. If you do it by expressing an honest need and you are in a good marriage, friendship, or relationship, you may find some willing help.
You could also become resigned to being exhausted and sit with your feelings of depression, resentment, or apathy. But, at some point, you will need to do what it is you are resisting to do in order to get out of that dark hole and move forward.
Or you could seek a way to help yourself get what you need.
Here are 20 ways to boost those “happy” brain chemicals, change your mood, and engage your creative right brain that will help you to recharge and restore energy:
Listen to uplifting music that reminds you of positive things.
Read a book in a genre you always enjoy.
Get some exercise-- the kind that makes your heart and lungs work faster.
Pray.
Take some deep breaths of fresh air in the sunshine.
Pet your dog or cat.
Hug someone you love tightly for at least one minute.
Get a neck rub, hand rub, foot rub, or massage.
Burn a candle or use some aromatherapy to enliven your senses.
Watch a favorite movie, video, or sitcom that makes you laugh.
Look up some videos on Youtube designed for relaxation.
Phone a friend.
Engage in sexual play with your spouse.
Take a 20 minute nap.
Cook and eat a meal with someone.
Imagine yourself in a peaceful place and pay attention to the sights, sounds, scents, and feeling of being there.
Take a warm bath or shower.
Go for a manicure or pedicure or exchange one with a friend.
Smile. Often!
Play a game.
Self-care does not have to be time consuming or another project on your to-do list. A few mood boosters every day can help to increase your motivation and energy.
But, these helpers are not meant to replace long-term solutions to ease the weight of the burdens you carry! Many of these symptom-relievers may not solve a problematic pattern of over-commitment, loose boundaries, social isolation, relationship distress, or role overload. They can, however, help improve the moment while you pursue long term answers.
If you feel depleted, overwhelmed, or stressed out most days of the week, perhaps you need to redirect your energy to finding lasting solutions. Contact Firm Foundations Marriage & Family Therapy PLLC and seek life changes that can truly make a difference!
