Sometimes, life feels like it hits you full in the face. It comes out of the blue and gives you a sucker punch that knocks you down. This can be in the form of financial distress, relationships, your career – anything. Often, you can’t put your finger on one specific cause of your downtrodden spirits; all you know is that you feel sad.
Sadness is one of the worst emotions as it seeps into the fabric of your life and stains it. No matter what you do or where you go, you still feel sad. Thankfully, there are ways you can lift your spirits and pick yourself back up. It’s not always easy, but here are a few simple acts that might help:
Give Yourself a Hit of Nostalgia
Nostalgia is a great healer as it reminds you of days where you had so few cares. I love looking back on life as a child or young adult and reminiscing. So, if you want to try and lift your spirits, then give yourself a shot of nostalgia. Find things that remind you of the good old days!
Chew on some Bazooka gum while watching your favorite TV show from the 80’s or 90’s. Or, even host an 80’s or 90’s theme night like we did!
If not, consider looking back at old photos when you were younger and laugh with your family. It’s a great way to almost escape from your current reality and remind yourself what happiness feels like.
Do Some Exercise
To many, this sounds like the last thing you want to do when you’re sad! However, exercise is a great mental stimulus. When you exercise, your brain releases endorphins into your body. This is a natural response, and it basically makes you feel elated and happy.
So, when people say that exercise makes you feel happier, there’s a scientific reason behind the statement! Seriously, go out for a 30-minute run or do a home workout. Get hot and sweaty, raise your heart rate, and collapse onto the sofa. You’ll feel tired, but you’ll also feel so much better. I think running or cycling outside are both great forms of exercise as they give you the benefits of fresh air as well.
Talk to Someone
It really is that simple. Talking to someone can be all you need to lift your spirits. I know reaching out to someone is a lot harder than it sounds. Still, it’s well worth the effort. You don’t even have to speak about any problems, just reach out to a friend or family member and say hello. Start a conversation, and you can feel stress and worry leave your body.
If you talk about your issues, then it feels like a weight has been lifted. If you don’t, then you still get a distraction and feel valued by speaking to another person.
Final Thoughts
Three simple acts, that’s all you have here. Each one can help you find relief from your sadness and raise your spirits up high. If you feel down, give them a try and enjoy happier days.
