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 Here are five simple ways to bring more joy to
your life right now.
Unplug - Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Comparison is the
thief of joy”. If you are vulnerable to social comparison, limit
your time spent on social media. Social media can help us stay
up-to-date with our social networks but too much of a good thing can
have negative effects. Frequent cellphone use is associated with
higher anxiety levels and reduced happiness. Be careful how much
time you spend scrolling through your newsfeed so you can stay
present in your own life. There is no substitute for human
interaction so if you miss seeing your friends, give them a call and
find out how their day is going.
Get moving - one of the best ways to put more pep in your
step is to get up and get some exercise. Blood flow will increase
oxygen to your brain. If you’re feeling a bit low on energy, don’t
just sit there, bust a move! Try some of the many free fitness
videos online, go for a walk, put on your favorite song, and dance
around in your jammies. Dancing always does the trick for me. Aim
for 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity every day.
Reach for a healthy snack - if you’re feeling less than
ideal, don’t reach for a snack to match. In other words, don’t fill
up on junk food. Instead, fill your body with vitamins, minerals,
and phytonutrients to help turn your day around. Fruits, vegetables,
nuts, seeds, and even a little dark chocolate could be just what you
need. Don’t forget about the sunshine vitamin! Getting outside for a
healthy dose of Vitamin D can also help boost your mood. One healthy
habit will lead to another and start a chain reaction. [to top of second
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Develop an attitude of gratitude - we all owe
someone our deepest thanks. Whether you take the time to write a
heartfelt letter, compose a song, or virtually connect online, make
it a point to express your gratitude toward someone that has made an
impact in your life. In recent years, I’ve sent cards to my K-12
teachers and they are touched to know they are still remembered and
appreciated after all these years. It’s a small act that can bring
joy to your life and that of the receiver. Other strategies to
enhance feelings of gratitude include journaling or writing down
what you are grateful for each day, meditating or praying on
gratitude, and thinking about someone or something you are grateful
for.
Take some deep breaths - stop reading for a moment and take a
long deep breath and calmly exhale. Don’t you feel better already?
When you’re in the grip of anxiety or a stressful situation, the
body wants to transition to short, thoracic breaths
(chest-breathing). By practicing a deep breathing exercise, you can
return to a more relaxed state. The next time you’re feeling
stressed, try breathing in for four counts and slowly exhaling for
four counts. Repeat this process until you’re in a peaceful state of
calm. [SOURCE: Kristin
Bogdonas, University of Illinois Extension Educator, Nutrition and
Wellness]
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