We all have days where we feel a little down. Maybe you’re feeling stressed from work, or perhaps something in your personal life is bothering you. Whatever the reason may be, it’s important to be kind to yourself during these times. Here are some ways you can show yourself a little extra love and compassion when you’re feeling blue.
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Practice Self-Compassion
When you’re feeling low, it can be easy to beat yourself up over things that have gone wrong. Instead of getting caught up in negative self-talk, try to practice self-compassion. This means treating yourself with the same kindness, concern, and understanding that you would offer to a good friend. Acknowledge that it’s okay to not be okay and give yourself permission to take a break and focus on self-care.
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Get Enough Sleep
Sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. When you’re feeling blue, it’s especially important to prioritize getting enough rest. Make sure you’re getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation before bed to help you drift off more easily.
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Connect with Others
Feeling isolated can exacerbate feelings of sadness or anxiety. Reach out to a friend or family member who you trust and who can offer you support. Talking through your feelings with someone who cares can help you feel heard and understood, and may even offer you some helpful perspective or advice.
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Move Your Body
Exercise is a natural mood-booster. Even a short walk or some light stretching can help release endorphins that boost your mood and reduce stress. Try to fit in some form of movement each day, even if it’s just a few minutes of gentle stretching or a quick walk around the block.
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Practice Gratitude
When you’re feeling blue, it can be easy to focus on the negative aspects of your life. Practicing gratitude can help shift your mindset and remind you of the things in your life that are going well. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, whether it’s a good cup of coffee, a supportive friend, or a beautiful sunset.
In summary, when you’re feeling blue, it’s important to be kind to yourself. Practice self-compassion, prioritize sleep, connect with others, move your body, and practice gratitude. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and by showing yourself a little extra love and compassion, you can help yourself feel better and get through tough times more easily.
About FearLess
FearLess is a charity that works with people living with the consequences of post traumatic stress (often referred to as PTSD). We also help family members in any way affected by it. Our community members come from all walks of life including those living with PTSD and their families or people who want to do their bit to make the lives of people living with post traumatic stress more enjoyable and fulfilling. Our work complements the activities of other community-based organisations and government agencies that provide services to people with post traumatic stress.
This website has been established to provide information about PTSD to the Australian and New Zealand community. The website’s content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your own circumstances. You should not disregard professional medical advice, or delay seeking it, because of any information contained on this website.
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