5 Things To Do When You Are Feeling Sad
I recently asked on instagram what people do when life feels heavy, hard, or sad and it was SO fun reading the answers. Here are my top five:
Go for a walk - walks are the best! They are so easy, anyone can do it, and the physical, emotional, and mental benefits are huge.
Read a book - whether it’s a good novel or a self-help book sitting down (or listening on that walk!) and bringing your awareness to something outside of your situation can be soothing and feel productive. Memoirs are making a huge comeback in my life lately!
A few of my recent favorite books: Between Two Kingdoms (a beautiful memoir of a young woman who gets leukemia), Attached (attachment theory in love and relationships), The Alchemist (a beautiful allegorical journey), and I am currently reading In an Unspoken Voice: How the Body Releases Trauma and Restores Goodness (this is by Peter Levine, the founder of Somatic Experiencing
Journal - It’s really important to get your feelings out. Writing them down is such a great release. Plus, having a cute journal and fun pens make it way better. At least I think so. (Also, I’m obsessed with these journals. I tend toward neutrals in most things, but I have these in so many bright colors).
4. Call a friend - Having an outside safe person to listen and validate you is so healing.
5. Turn your attention outwards - It’s easy to begin to feel hopeless or self-pity when we sit in our own pain for days or weeks. Don’t jump out of your pain, but take time to help someone, listen to someone, or to be of service.
Honorable mentions: Watch a show, take a bath, yoga, meditate, eat something comforting or have a treat, workout, and spending time with a partner, friends, kids, and pets.
