5 Ways to Stay Positive in Your Environment
With storms, cold weather, not to mention colds and flu doing the rounds, it's important to keep in a positive mindset.
1. Stay Cosy
It may seem like an obvious one, but if the weather is getting you down, or you feel unwell, it's important to give that body of yours a hug. Whether it's a big blanket, a warm jumper, or fluffy socks, that additional warmth will help you to feel better within yourself.
2. Do Something Relaxing
Whether it's listening to music, reading, or watching a movie, it's important to give your brain some downtime and dopamine. Sometimes, we aren't capable of doing something physical, and that's okay! If you relax, you are making your brain happy, and that's always a good thing.
3. Be Active in Some Way (If You Can)
Some form of activity can be great for battling the blues or getting that dopamine rush when you have a pesky bug. The exercise doesn't have to be a lot, it can be wrapping up warm and walking the dog, doing some yoga, carrying out a few sitting exercises or simply completing a task or two around the house. Whichever activity you choose, you are moving your body and in turn, increasing the dopamine in your system.[1]
4. Change your Mindset
Usually, when it is horrible outside we think: "Great, I can't get that food item", or " Now, I can't go on my run", or " This weather makes my work commute seem miserable". When we are ill, we think the exact same way; We focus on all the things we cannot do. Instead, try to focus on all the things that you are able to do!
See the absence of that food item as a chance to challenge your culinary skills, or if you are unwell, to treat yourself to that takeaway. If the run outside is impossible, do some cardio by having a dance to your favourite songs! When the weather seems depressing, blast the radio and pretend you are in a music video, or if you work from home, why not sit those plants outside to get some nutrients- the rain is great for plant life.
Changing your view of the opportunities open to you is immensely important for your mental health. Numerous studies have shown that by thinking more positively and optimistically, your mood can improve significantly.[2][3][4]
5. Make Future Plans
Sometimes, when the weather is awful or we are unwell, we feel like it will last forever. To get your brain feeling good, contact a friend and get a catch-up in the diary. It is very easy to remain stuck in the present moment but having plans to look forward to can help motivate you to keep pushing through.
Here are 5 ways that you can look after your mental health in this current climate
Hopefully, some of these tips can help you get through this rough weather and help you to know that even this storm shall pass.